Presentation of a Fallen Warrior Quilt by Heather B

This story begins last November with an inadvertent comment to Jan-Maree about a friend (Mrs MC.) whose husband was a Vietnam Veteran (RAAF) who had unfortunately succumbed to Motor Neurone Disease (coming up 9years prior). The response was “well, she deserves a Fallen Warrior Quilt”.

So…. Some behind the scenes enquiries to her son to make sure a FWQ would be appropriate, and a plan was hatched. There were a few hiccups along the way, like me getting Covid, incomplete addresses and quilts and snail mail from Aust Post, so the first option for presentation (which was the anniversary of GPCAPT GC’s passing) didn’t happen.

Several weeks later would have been GC’s 80th birthday. My partner in the planning, his son, JC, would also be in town, staying over, so new plans for presentation on Feb 17.

It was a big surprise when I rocked up to MC’s villa, retrieving her from a pruning session in the garden. Morning tea time declared. MC proceeded to tell her son about the quilts I make for the military as each week after our exercise class at coffee, I show MC “my latest creation”. The FWQ quilt had been discreetly placed under a dining chair when I arrived.

“Well as a matter of fact, I have a quilt for you.”

“Oh, Heather, you are going to make me cry?…JC do you know about this?”

“There could have been a few messages and phone calls, between us.” (Snigger)

And yes, there were tears and still MC is overawed - “the quilt is so beautiful!”

GPCAPT GC had many roles during his enlisted years (1970-1997), serving in Vietnam, Sinai And Malaysia plus overseas United Nations postings. In 1980, GC was recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list, being granted Membership of the British Empire (MBE) for his military contribution.

Personally, I had the honour of knowing GC as an absolute gentleman, a community minded man who could relate stories like no other. Sadly MND took his life too soon, but MC continues to be involved in MND & Me (the fundraising part of the organisation).

Happy Heavenly 80th Birthday GC! Many thanks to Dorothy C, Lynn F, Philomena H and Inge C for your contributions in making this quilt.

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Thanks for a lovely write up Heather. 

Till next time... keep spreading the word and happy stitching. 

Jan-Maree xx