Apart from the Tour of Gallipoli Army Barracks, Jan-Maree and I had another important duty to perform last week.

Up northwest of Brisbane near the small country town of Dayboro lives a now retired veteran of both British and Australian Armies and his family. With a quilt packaged on the back seat, we were ready to surprise this gentleman!

When I took on the making of this quilt, Jan-Maree told me it was for someone special – in fact, he had already received 2 quilts BUT on deployment in Afghanistan gave his ‘just received’ quilt to a young soldier who was heading to an outpost in the middle of winter with only a summer sleeping bag. Another was made for him, BUT this arrived the day before he left to go home. He put it on his young daughter’s bed and wrote to tell Jan-Maree how much it meant to him. Both of those quilts were not personalised as this was back in the days when our quilts were not personalised. Now that he is out of the army it was time he received something that truly paid tribute to his years of service.

Up the long driveway to his home, in an absolutely beautiful part of our country, the signs of a very dedicated soldier were evident….. statue of a Soldier Rest-on-arms, the Australian flag, the Ode, Rising Sun, plus more were on display.

Capt Carl was told of our visit so was expecting us. We were greeted with his beloved Staffy, Millie. After an afternoon tea of cool drinks and carrot cake (Country bakeries are the best!) we chatted, and Jan-Maree caught up on how life was going. Soon his wife returned from work and youngest daughter joined us … out came the quilt surprise! Capt Carl’s lovely wife had been instrumental in sourcing photos and arranging the afternoon. Well done!

I am so privileged to have met Capt Carl but to see, first-hand, his reaction to seeing his quilt with his service history, countries of deployment, his family and faithful Millie incorporated in it, was just fabulous! He was so grateful, and I scored the most heartfelt hug (Shhhh don’t tell hubby!!!).

Unfortunately, the service he has given to both countries has left him with both physical and mental scars – a quilt is such a small thing really, but it is appreciated and recognises the sacrifices that have been made.

Heather B

Thanks Heather. I should also mention that Carl’s daughter was there and she was also putting in a bid to own the quilt in the future. 😉

Till next time… keep spreading the word and happy stitching!

Jan-Maree xx