Franciscan Sister Honored with Quilt of Valor Award

On May 25, 2024 Franciscan Sister of Christian Charity Sister Charles Ann Champeau was honored with a Quilt of Valor Award for her service in the United States Naval Reserves from 1984-1990. She and 44 other Women Veterans from all over the United States were recognized at the Wisconsin Rapids East Fieldhouse. The event is sponsored annually by Heroes Cafe. Founder Bill Haack is also a Navy Veteran and Master of Ceremonies. The quilts are made by Material Girls Quilt Club.  Quilts of Valor Foundation was inspired by a dream. Catherine Roberts recalls a dream of a young man sitting on his bedside in utter despair. Then she saw him wrapped in a quilt and his attitude changed to one of hope and well-being. She felt deeply the dream to mean the quilt equaled healing.”

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Sister Charles Ann/Petty Officer Second Class Lynn Ann Champeau, USNR comments:

The program started with a variety of Military and Patriotic music played by the Lincoln High School Band. They were fabulous!

Then Pastor Dan De Roche gave the Invocation followed by the Presentation of Colors at which time each branch of the military was saluted. The National Anthem and other songs were led by the Aspiring Acapellas (four women vocalists.)

At this time the presentation of the Quilts of Valor took place. Each veteran was called by name, one at a time, and her quilt was unfolded and wrapped around the shoulders. As this took place a little information was given about that person’s service to our country. When each of us had received our quilt there was a standing ovation.

I was able to talk to some of the women veterans from both the East and West coasts. It was a very lovely ceremony and an enjoyable day. Thanks for Sister Sue Ann Hall, Sister Carmen Marie Diaz and Sister Barbara Mathe who accompanied me.