In a heartfelt ceremony held at the American Legion Post 558, Plains Township, three local veterans were honored by the Northeast Chapter Quilts of Valor in tribute to their service to the nation.
—Mark Klinges, Plains Twp.
Honored for his service as a member of the U.S. Army, having joined the 402nd Military Police Reserve Unit in 1978.
In 1990, he was ordered to active duty in support of Desert Shield/Desert Storm as a Unit Armorer, responsible for instruction, security and maintenance of the unit’s weapons.
He also served as advisor to the Saudi Army on the setup, operations and maintenance of a POW camp. In 1998, he was promoted to Master Sergeant E-8.
Receiving many awards during his lengthy engagement of service to his country, he was honorably discharged in 2002.
—William Morrissey, Harveys Lake
Honored for his service in the United States Navy during the Vietnam Era from 1975 to 1979.
Following basic training at Great Lakes, IL, he trained as a radio communication technician in San Diego, CA. He sailed aboard the USS LaSalle, taking him to the Republic of Seyschelles off the Indian Ocean, as well as the Philippines and Adak, Alaska, the home of a Naval Air Facility (now closed).
He was honorably discharged in 1979 with the rank of Radioman 2nd Class E-5.
—Raymond Zabofski, Wilkes-Barre Twp.
The honoree began his service in the U.S. Army in 1951. He completed basic training at Fort Dix, N.J. He continued serving his country in Korea as part of the Army 24th Infantry Signal Corps.
While stationed in Korea, he underwent bayonet training and predominantly worked as a motor repair specialist, along with working with gas generators and installing communication lines to the front lines.
He received several medals and awards including the Bronze Star and United Nation medals.
After two years of service, he was honorably discharged in January 1953 with the rank of Staff Sergeant E-6.
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Becky Orlowski, chapter leader, concluded the ceremony noting that the patriotic quilts, made by members of the NEPA Quilts of Valor, stand as symbols of compassion, respect and gratitude, offering comfort and solace to those who served their country.
For information, e-mail nepaqov@gmail.com or visit the chapter’s Facebook page at Northeast PA Quilts of Valor.