Quilts of Valor Honor Local Veterans During Patriotic Celebration

A presentation of Quilts of Valor was made to Lloyd V. Boudreau and Robert E. Ellison during the fifth annual Shrine of St. Patrick Quilt Show on Saturday, June 27.

The presentation served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifice, service and patriotism of local veterans as the nation prepares to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.

Lloyd V. Boudreau is a lifelong resident of the St. Patrick community. He is the son of the late Robert and Wilma Boudreau. He is married to Linda (Lee) Boudreau, and they have three children, Jason, Angela and Carie.

Boudreau served in the U.S. Army from 1965 to 1967. He was a military police officer and attained the rank of E-4. He was a member of the 527th MP Company, 716th Battalion, and was stationed in Vietnam.

Robert E. Ellison was born and raised in the St. Patrick community. He is the son of the late Paul and Agnes Ellison. He now resides in Canton, Missouri. His last surviving sibling is Rita Kirchner of St. Patrick. He has two children, Todd and Jennifer.

Ellison was a member of the Airborne Division of the 187th Regiment. He attained the rank of corporal and was stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

Also recognized was the Sewcial Quilters organization, whose members stitch Quilts of Valor for local veterans. The ladies have been meeting and sewing together since 2019 and have awarded approximately 175 Quilts of Valor. They also make quilts to donate to fire victims and benefit auctions.

Members of this important group are Pam Oilar, Becky Rodgers, Cinda James, Barb Clark, Barbie Bergman, Carol Johnson, Cheryl Buschling, Lola Marsh, Audrey Ekle, Odena Soberg, LaTisha Snead, Kathy Shipley, Chris Sewell, Maryann Barnes and Eileen Brotherton.

The presentation was a fitting tribute to two local veterans, the volunteers who honor them and the enduring spirit of service that continues to define America as the nation celebrates its 250th birthday.