Army Sergeant - Ryan Sudbeck

Army Sergeant Ryan Sudbeck received a Dove of Peace quilt, on Thursday, December 7, 2013, at the Omaha VFW Post 2503. Recognized for his outstanding service to the United States during a foreign war, he remains a leader, and he continues to honor the United States by keeping it safe from hostile entities. His service found him in dangerous situations, but a commitment to getting the job done right brought about the successful completion of his assignments.

Although his service to our country was sidelined due to an injury, Ryan's time in the Army proved to be one of significant contribution. His military career included and assignment to Ft. Richardson, Alaska from 2008-2011, with the 425 Brigades Special Troops Battalion Airborne Unit (BSTB). As part of the Charlie Unit, he served the country with his extensive knowledge of communications. His time in Communications included, but was not limited to, working on the Help Desk for all military personnel and computers, as well as servicing retrends, which means he went into remote locations and set up antennas for better reception.

With an in-depth knowledge of Fiber Optics, Sergeant Sudbeck found himself stationed in Afghanistan from 2009-2010. As a part of Operation Enduring Freedom, (OEF), not only did he provide his expertise to his station, but Sergeant Sudbeck also found himself on call to other brigades in need of his assistance.

One of his memorable moments includes an Apache gunship escort to an remote base during a no-flight zone period. This means he was in one of two helicopters forced into a hostile situation due to the urgency and critical nature of the communication systems.

 Another moment that Sergeant Sudbeck will never forget came during the first six months of service in Afghanistan. During this time, while outside the Post Office, he was under attack from small arms fire. Moments later, a rocket exploded approximately twenty-five feet from where he stood. Fortunately, he did not sustain any injuries as the building shielded his body.

The years he spent in the Army were not without recognition. His honors included the following:
⦁    Meritorious Unit Commendation for the outstanding service and valor provided by both Sergeant Sudbeck and his unit
⦁    Battalion Soldier of the Year in Afghanistan
⦁    Company Soldier of the Month, twice
⦁    Combat Action Badge
⦁    Good Conduct Award
⦁    2 Army Achievement Awards
⦁    2 Army Accommodations
⦁    Platoon Sergeant of Retransmission Unit

During his time in the Army, Sergeant Sudbeck was in charge of his troops, not only making certain that communications ran smoothly, but for their well-being, too.

While living in Omaha, Nebraska, Ryan is actively involved in the VFW Post 2503 daily operations, as well as additional assignments. One of the first to greet those arriving at the VFW, Ryan is also responsible for the rental of the VFW Hall, the annual Fireworks setup and sales, and making certain everyone feels at home.

Although he is still sidelined, Sergeant Ryan Sudbeck dreams, and actively seeks, an opportunity to serve the United States, once more, as an active member of the Army.

The signature blocks, in this patriotic quilt, came from the Lancaster County Fair  and the Quilted Kitty in Lincoln, Nebraska, and the Nebraska Humane Society, McDonald's, SAC Federal Credit Union, and Hancock Fabrics in Omaha, Nebraska. Thanks to all of those that shared their thoughts and well wishes!

Army & United States Army Reserve - Colonel Robert (Bob) Pelletier

Army Colonel Robert (Bob) Pelletier was honored on Thursday, December 7, 2013, at the Omaha VFW Post 2503. He was awarded a Dove of Peace quilt, recognizing him as one of our nation's heroes for his role, both as a serviceman, as well as an active community member.

The quilt is inspired by the patriotic colors of our flag and represents pride in the United States.

An impressive biography follows his service in the Army, starting when he graduated form The Citadel and was commissioned in May of 1984. As a member of the 4th Squadron, 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment, he served in numerous leadership and staff assignments. This included the roles of a helicopter assault Platoon Leader, a Cavalry Troop Executive officer, and a Squadron Assistant S-4.

After completing the Infantry Officers Advanced Course at Ft. Benning, Georgia, he was assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division for three years. During this period, COL Pelletier served as commander of the Headquarters and Service Company, 1-227th Attack Battalion, Ft. Hood/Kuwait/Iraq between 1989 and 1991. Thereafter, he served as the Plans and Operations Officer of the Aviation Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division

His career continued as COL Pelletier was then assigned as the Squadron S-4, 4th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division in Musan, Korea for one year.

Thereafter, his assignments included the following:
⦁    101st AB DIV Aviation Brigade Adjutant
⦁    Deputy Operations Officer, 6th Battalion, 101st Airborne Division
⦁    J-3 Air, Joint Task Force-Bravo, Honduras

As a member of the United States Army Reserves, he held the following positions:
⦁    Maintenance Branch Chief, 561st Corps Support Group, in Omaha, Nebraska
⦁    3rd Corps Support Command (CONUS) in Des Moines, Iowa, as the Aviation Material Manager for Support Operations
⦁    2003 found him mobilized in Germany and Kuwait with the 3rd COSCOM to support Operation Iraqi Freedom. As a member of the Combined Joint Task Force-7, he was the Director of Rail Operations and Reconstruction in Iraq
⦁    2006 found him mobilized in Ft. Hood, Texas as Deputy Director, Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security
⦁    The next two years, COL Pelletier assumed command of the 394th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion in Fremont, Nebraska
⦁    His promotion to Colonel, in 2009, lead to his assignment as the Department of Army's Liaison to the Nebraska Governor for Homeland Security and Defense.
⦁    Two years were spent as the Brigade Commander of the 38th Regional Support Group headquartered at Cross Lanes, West Virginia
⦁    He joined the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) as Chief of Deployment and Distribution Operations Center.
⦁    His finally deployment found in in Afghanistan as the Director of the Army Rail Advisory Team to ISAF from 2012 to 2013

Colonel Pelletier's military education included graduation from the U.S. Army War College with extensive course work in various modes of transportation.

Colonel Robert Pelletier awards include the following:
⦁    Bronze Star with Oak Leaf (2 OLC)
⦁    Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf (3 OLC)
⦁    Joint Service Commendation Medal
⦁    Army Commendation Medal (3 OLC)
⦁    Army Achievement Medal (2 OLC)
⦁    Army Reserve Achievement Medal (3 OLC)
⦁    National Defense Medal with Bronze Star
⦁    Southwest Asia Service Medal (3 Campaign Stars)
⦁    Afghanistan Campaign Medal(1 Campaign Star)
⦁    Iraqi Campaign Medal (2 Campaign Stars)
⦁    GWOT Expeditionary Medal
⦁    GWOT Service Medal
⦁    Korean Defense Service Medal
⦁    NATO Medal
⦁    Armed Forces Reserve Medal with Mobilization device and silver hour glass
⦁    Overseas Service Ribbon with “4” device
⦁    Army Service Ribbon
⦁    Saudi Arabia Liberation Medal
⦁    Kuwait Liberation Medal
⦁    Meritorious Unit Medal (OLC)
⦁    Joint Meritorious Unit Medal (OLC)
⦁    Combat Action Badge
⦁    Army Aviation Badge
⦁    Air Assault Badge

COL Pelletier currently resides in Omaha with his wife, Terry. Besides active community service, he finds himself as a Regional Operations Manager for the Union Pacific Railroad.

The family proudly displayed the quilt on their dining room table for the holidays.

Army Trainer - Steve Horn - Vietnam Era Veteran

Steve Horn, an Army Trainer, served the United States during the Vietnam War. As a dedicated trainer, he made certain his troops were as prepared as possible for military combat. Numerous lives were saved as a result.

Steve served the United States during a twelve year stent with the United States Army. Four years were spent as a member of Creighton's ROTC squad. This was followed by six years of active and reserve duty, and two years teaching the Department of Defense in both Wiesbaden and Hanau, Germany.

Two years were spent at the Engineer Officer School at Fort Belvoir in Virginia. This experience, in 1961, provided so much information, that Steve recognizes that it provided a broad basis of education and helped him become a jack of all trades.

December, 1961, found Steve in a course on Construction Planning of Blast and Fallout Shelters during the Berlin Crisis. Although the training was to lead to time in Germany creating barrier plans to slow down the Russian movement, but they were shipped to Fort Leonard Wood to repllace those sent to Engineer units overseas.

Most of the 120 officers in these courses ended up teaching Basic Training at Fort Leonard Wood. Many were bitter, but Steve enjoyed the experience. The post included good libraries, gyms, and a beautiful Ozark setting.

Trips to Omaha were frequent, because Steve accepted night exercises, providing additional time off for travel.

As Steve's skills grew, he took over a training Company for the second eight weeks after Basics.

While never overseas during any of his time in the military, he did experience the battles of Fort Leonard Wood, Fort Riley, Fort Jackson, Camp McCoy, Fort Belvoir, Camp AP Hill, Camp Carson, and Corps Headquarters in Omaha. During this period, he accepted additional duties as the following:

• Trial Counsel for Special Court
• Defense Counsel
• Member of the Court
• Safety Officer
• Range Officer

Although Steve considered himself a gung-ho officer during the majority of his military service, he began to question the Vietnam War. As a trainer for Troop Information course a Fort Omaha, in 1966, he was to convince soldiers of the rationale for the war. The films offered by the Army, however, were filled with contradictions.
While one of the mantras was, "We must win the hearts and minds of the people," films would show lines of bombs streaming out of B-52s. The end results included images of burnt villages and the use of firepower under conditions that were far from winning anyone's heart or mind.

As he matured, subsequent actions made it clear to Steve that this type of war was a losing situation, largely because we have no idea of the complexities of a lengthy war, nor a deep understanding of the cultures being fought.

According to Steve, "For years, I had thought I should have stayed in the Army.  One of the great saving aspects of my life was that I returned to work for the army two different times as a teacher.  In that capacity I relived much of the reasons I did not extend when asked.  I have a good grasp of the family life faced by soldiers deployed overseas.  Some of their problems are heartbreaking."

Steve continues to fight as a Veteran for Peace in Omaha, Nebraska, raising the awareness that citizens must question the necessity of any war.

The quilt was presented on the corner of 72nd and Dodge Street, in Omaha, Nebraska, on September 24, 2013. The quilt, made by Vicki, pays tribute to Steve's service. Steve continues to honor the United States by representing veterans for peace. Thank you, Steve!

In the Spotlight: Bill (William) Heider - United States Army - World War II

In honor of all veterans of United States' foreign wars, a Log Cabin/Barn Raiser quilt was awarded to Mrs. Bill (William) Heider and their daughter, Kim, of Omaha, Nebraska.

Mr. Heider wasn't available to receive his award, but his wife, Bernie, and daughter, Kim were delighted to see the quilt made in Bill Heider's honor.

Mr. Heider lived across the street from me during my childhood. A strong presence in the neighborhood, we could always count on Mr. Heider for farm-fresh produce, which always included ripe tomatoes, sweet corn, and fresh eggs. He made summer special. Not only did he find time to be an active gardener, as well as member of various groups and church, he also became one of the pillars of his neighbor.

He always had a smile on his face and extended a helping hand with snow following blizzards or pleasant conversations.

While I never had the pleasure of talking with Mr. Heider at great length about his experience in France, I believe he was a Marine, if not a Marine at heart.

When he shared memories of the war, it was on a day that he received basil bread freshly made at Target. He reflected on the fact that it was just like the bread so many French families ate.

Bill and his wife raised a beautiful family in the Omaha. Their children, Mark, Teresa, and Amy are grown with families and grandchildren to keep the family growing.

Mr. Heider honored the United States by not only giving time to keeping our constitutional rights and responsibilities at the forefront of history, but also by shining a bright light in the Omaha community, as well.


The man holding the quilt shared the following:

Mr. Heider proudly served the United States during the Korean War, while stationed in France. While he tried to enlist in the United States Marine Corp, at the tail end of WWII, they rejected him due to flat feet.

In 1950, at the age of 22, the Korean War started. Mr. Heider was drafted and served his country as a Corporal Parts Specialist with the Engineers' Construction Battalion for heavy equipment parts. During this time, his tour included parts of Southern Europe, including Italy and Spain.

One of Mr. Heider's fondest memories was a moment in Bremerhaven. While in his bunk, the news that General Eisenhower was elected as President tickled him pink. This was, in part, due to the fact that he was on his second week of extra duty. He'd be going home soon.

Another responsibility that fell upon Mr. Heider's service as an enlisted soldier, was cleaning up, due to the Russian threat, at the Maginot Line.

When called upon to enlist, he left Omaha with a group of men, and was stationed in California. From California, he left for France and played an important role in a one of the most disastrous wars in our history.

Bob Fenton - Air Force - Korean War

May 1, 2014, found Bob Fenton honored for his service and commitment to the United States, both during a foreign war, as well as ongoing community service.

According to VFW Post 2503:
Bob served in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 - 1955.  He served as an aerial gunner on B-29 aircraft and flew combat missions over North Korea. He joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars in 1959 and has served as Honor Guard Captain and Post 2503 Commander.  In both capacities, Bob has brought credit to himself and the Post.  He has expended significant amounts of time in many different roles to benefit the Post and his community. He serves on the State Scholarship Committee. He is currently the Post Membership Chairman and works hard to persuade veterans to join the Veterans of Foreign Wars.  Please congratulate Bob for his service to the United States, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Omaha community

Midnight Star:
Bob received a patriotic Midnight Star quilt. The back of the quilt was completed as information about his service to the United States was added. While the photos do not do justice, this quilt hallmarks our appreciation for Bob Fenton's tireless commitment to the United States, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, VFW Post 2503, as well as the community of Omaha, Nebraska.

Thank you, Mr. Fenton!

Duke Humphrey - Honored at Omaha VFW Post 2503

Duke Humphrey, a Marine that served in the Vietnam War, was honored with a Dove of Peace quilt.

According to VFW Post 2503:
William "Duke" Humphrey joined the Marine Corps in 1968, completed artillery  training and was sent  to  Vietnam where he spent 13 months, 20 days, and 4 hours. He was section chief on Gun 3 Base piece which did the adjusting for the forward observers calling in missions. He was involved in many fire missions and operations during his time there. His ribbons include the Combat Action Ribbon, Presidential Unit Citation, Cross of Gallantry and others. Many missions were deep in the jungles where they were brought in by helicopter and also was involved in 2 Battalion Landing Teams bringing them in by ship where his unit received the Navy Commendation Medal. He finished his duty with the Marine Corps in Camp LeJune N.C.

This complex quilt was made to honor all military branches, but was given to a member of the Omaha VFW Post 2503, as the colors are reflected in their hats.

Duke shares the quilt with his cat. As soon as he provides additional information about his military service, it will be posted here.

Nebraska resident, Francis A., a veteran of World War II

Francis A., a Trainer during World War II, served the United States with honor and nobility. His skills as a trainer allowed men to face combat situations with confidence. The efforts of this trainer saved so many lives. Thank you for serving the United States during a foreign war!

Laura L., of Lincoln, Nebraska, made this stunning quilt for Mr. A. It was presented on August 19, 2013, in his home.

Dupell, Ron

On Thursday, April 3, 2014, Mr. Ron Dupell, a veteran that served during the Vietnam War, was honored with a special historical quilt. Mr. Dupell, CMSgt, USAF (Retired) served in Da Nang and Dong Ha, Vietnam, 1969.1970

Mr. Dupell serves as the Quarter Master of VFW Post 2503 in Omaha, Nebraska. His generous donation of time and energy helps keep the lights on there.

This quilt reflects the Holocaust and is called Stars of Peace. Each star represents those that died during this tragic event, including those tortured by Nazis, as well as those serving in military units. The night sky is the backdrop for stars of gold.

Stars of Peace - the picture does not do this quilt justice

Photos and additional information will be posted following an in-depth interview with Mr. Dupell.

Jason Swain - Army

Jason Swain, was honored with a quilt on February 6, 2014, at the Northwest Omaha VFW Post 2503. He retired as Master Sergeant from the United States Army. He served our country for twenty-one years. His career began in April, 1991, and lasted through March, 2012.

While his final overseas deployment was during the Iraq War, he also completed assignments in Germany, Italy, and United Kingdom, and Macedonia. While stateside, his assignments included the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum in New York, as well as the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood in Texas and the United States Southern Command in Miami, Florida.

Jason earned numerous service awards and decorations including the following:
⦁    Bronze Star Medal 2nd award
⦁    Defense Meritorious Service Medal
⦁    Meritorious Service Medal
⦁    Army Commendation Medal 4th award
⦁    Joint Service Commendation Medal
⦁    Army Achievement Medal 6th award
⦁    Joint Service Achievement Medal 2nd award
⦁    National Defense Service Ribbon
⦁    Iraq Campaign Medal
⦁    Kosovo Campaign Medal
⦁    Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
⦁    Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
⦁    Non-commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon 3rd award
⦁    Humanitarian Service Medal

He was honored with a signature block quilt for active service during a foreign war.

The proud father of a 20 month old son, he welcomed his parents to the Omaha community this year, as well.

Photos to be added soon.

This song honors the lives of all United States Veterans

War is not the Answer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFRgEQGIDzs

Chooty and Company

A generous thank you goes out to an Iowa-based firm, Chooty & Co., for the fabric they provided for quilts. Never has any company opened it doors to so much fabric, simply to support the efforts of honoring others.

What a pleasure it was to meet with Connie G., a Chooty & Co. team member, that also loves shopping during Hancock Fabric sales. She offered a business card and promised that a trip to Council Bluffs would be worthwhile. She wasn't kidding!

While most of the fabric will be used for utility quilts for those in need of warmth, through Heart-to-Heart Quilts, there is a portion that will find its way into patriotic quilts for veterans.

Last quilt of 2014

As a great year comes to an end, another patriotic quilt nears completion. The red, white, and blue theme continues to honor United States' Veterans. Without their dedication to our Constitution, as well as the rights and responsibilities that go along with it, our nation could never stand strong against any enemy, internal or external. Thank you!

Nomination Process

Nominate a Veteran Today!

There are so many veterans in the United States that deserve to be honored for their service. Without their sacrifice and commitment, our constitutional rights and responsibilities would vanish. 

Many of these veterans received recognition, including various medals of honor. Others served overseas, following orders and doing what their leaders asked of them.

Further, many face challenges including, but not limited to, physical disabilities, PTSD, difficulty adjusting to society again, and so forth.

Please help me reach out to veterans with a quilt. There is absolutely no charge to those nominating a veteran, nor the veteran that receives the quilt.

All fabric and time associated with each quilt is donated.

If you know someone that served in any of the United States foreign wars, and continues to represent the United States through actions and/or deeds, please leave a comment on to this post, or email me at:

onedoveofpeace@gmail.com

Please include the name of the veteran, the war they served in, as well as contact information for you or the veteran.

Those that receive a quilt have the chance to share their service experiences on this blog.

Thanks so much for thinking of others! 

Happy 4th of July

Happy 4th of July to all veterans of United States wars, as well as those that served during times of peace.

Every year, at this time, we are proudly reminded of your service, sacrifice, and dedication to our Constitution, as well as the Bill of Rights.

How can we ever thank you enough for all that you were willing to lose in order to protect this magnificent country? Freedom is too precious to give up or ignore. 

Upcoming August Quilt - Cookie & Jason

During a tough walk back from Target, Cookie, and her son, Jason, offered me a ride. Thanks to them, the walk home was successful. Therefore, in their honor, the August quilt will be dedicated in their name. 

The July quilt will be presented in August to a member of the Omaha community, most likely sometime during the first week of the month. The quilt, Reflections of Service, is  tribute to all veterans that also do volunteer work for their community.

Reflections of Service - personalized message on the back

Quilt designs were done by hand on a traditional Singer sewing machine

Log cabin block

Stop by frequently for updates!