Middletown Quilting Group Awarded 800 Veteran Quilts

The Middletown Peacemakers have honored local veterans with handmade quilts since 2017.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Needlework

Screen-print poster illustration of a stack of folded fabric quilt squares in warm earth tones, evoking community heritage. — The Middletown Peacemakers quilting group has honored more than 800 veterans with handmade quilts since the initiative began in 2017. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe local volunteer efforts adequately recognize the sacrifices made by veterans in your community?

Since 2017, the Middletown Peacemakers Quilts of Valor group has produced and awarded more than 800 quilts to veterans and service members. Operating in Dauphin County, the group focuses on providing recognition to those who served, particularly Vietnam veterans who did not receive a formal welcome home.

Why it matters

The initiative ensures that veterans are formally remembered for their service and sacrifice. By providing handmade comfort, the volunteers aim to offer lasting gratitude to service members.

The group has produced more than 800 quilts since launching in 2017. Each quilt features three layers specifically representing community, warmth, healing, strength, and support.

The players

Jo Garvin

She serves as the leader of the Middletown Peacemakers quilting group.

Don Person

He is a veteran who served six years in the Navy during the Vietnam conflict.

Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 542

This local organization provides the meeting space for the quilting group in Harrisburg.

The details

Volunteers construct quilt tops and assemble the final pieces to support veterans and active service members. The efforts are centered on ensuring recipients feel the support of their community through these handmade gestures.

The quilting group began their efforts in 2017.
Members meet on the first Friday of every month.

Culture Shift

This effort follows a pattern set by the Vietnam War service recognition movement, which seeks to address the historical lack of public appreciation for those veterans. The project reflects a broader societal trend of community-led initiatives providing the formal recognition that many service members did not receive upon their return home.

Residents in Harrisburg interested in volunteering or contributing materials can join the group during their monthly meetings. The quilting project provides a tangible way for community members to directly support the emotional and physical well-being of local veterans.

The takeaway

Volunteers can participate in the ongoing mission by attending the group's regular meetings to help assemble future quilts. This consistent effort ensures that local service members continue to receive recognition for their dedication.