Vietnam Veteran Arthur Mitts was honored at St. Paul’s Church in Nashua as a token of gratitude for his service on Veterans Day. He received the Quilt of Valor from St. Joseph’s Hospital. This is the second year the hospital has distributed the Quilt of Valor, a civilian award designed to thank soldiers and veterans affected by war.

“We hope that today’s Quilt of Valor presentation will serve as a small token of gratitude and a symbol of the warmth and comfort we wish to be extended to you by our nation when you first return home,” said Patrick McCarty, also a veteran. He works in the hospital.

While picking up the quilt, Mitts wore a T-shirt that commemorated the lives of those who lost their lives during the Vietnam War.

Mitts was drafted into the military in 1969 at the age of 19 and served in the army. He says he’s proud to be a Vietnam veteran, despite being mistreated and struggling with his health after returning to the US

Donna Swenson of the New Hampshire chapter of Quilts of Valor submitted the quilt, reflecting the challenges many veterans like Mitts face after returning from tours of duty.

“We believe that as we sew, love, care and gratitude flows from our hearts to our hands and onto those quilts,” she said.