What an exciting week we had at the AUSA annual meeting. A venue tailor made for Quilts of Valor to share our mission with active duty military personnel, veterans, military family members, exhibitors and sponsors. Lexie and I had the pleasure of meeting some amazing souls – the very embodiment of selfless service. We were surrounded by those depicted in our mission statement.
While there were over 40,000 people in attendance, conversations still happened one to one. Whether I met them sitting at the breakfast or luncheon events, strolling through the exhibit halls, or standing by our quilt exhibit, it was heartwarming to talk with so many who had a story to share. Some people I talked with had heard of Quilts of Valor and were excited to share their award stories, while others were hearing of us for the first time. I also enjoyed listening to the “ oohh’s and aahh’s and would you look at that” when people stopped to admire, or take pictures in front of, the quilts we had on display.
From the military traditions in the opening ceremony to the various events throughout the week, when we heard our military service personnel get up and talk, in their commanding booming voices, ending their speeches with “This we’ll Defend” makes you incredibly humble for what we were privileged to see- the behind the scenes protection of our great country. The very reason for our mission.