Robert Youngblood of Hanover Township and William Lever of Exeter were recently recognized and awarded patriotic quilts by the Northeast Pennsylvania Quilts of Valor Chapter at a ceremony held at the Plains American Legion Post 365.

The handmade quilts, according to chapter leader Becky Orlowski, symbolize gratitude and respect for the honorees’ sacrifices and unwavering commitment to our country.

Youngblood enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard in 1963, completing basic training in Cape May, New Jersey. After training, he was assigned as a Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class. As part of the Third U.S. Coast Guard District, covering Long Island Sound, East and North Rivers of the Hudson River, the honoree was responsible for navigation, search and rescue operations, checking cargo ships, boat inspections, as well as instruction on maritime laws as he led a 40-foot patrol boat through all types of weather conditions.

He was awarded the Coast Guardsman of the Year Award in 1967 for his actions in rescuing a firefighter from a damaged British tanker, despite significant personal risk. This honor included receiving the Coast Guard Enlisted Man of the Year ribbon. He also received the Good Conduct and National Defense Medals. After four years of service, he was honorably discharged in September 1967 as an E5.

William Lever joined the U.S. Air Force in 1968, completing basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. Further training was completed at Amarillo Air Force Base, leading to his duties as a personnel specialist. He was assigned to Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, D.C., and later, for three years, the honoree served at the former Andrews Air Force Base. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Air Force in 1972.

In 1977, he joined the U.S. Air Force Reserves, part of the 92nd Aerial Port Squadron, Wyoming. He served at Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, preparing and loading cargo and completed trainings in Germany, Spain, England and Italy. After 31 years of combined active and reserve service, he retired as a senior master sergeant in June 2004.

For information on the Northeast PA Quilts of Valor, e-mail nepaqov@gmail.com or visit the chapter’s Facebook page at Northeast PA Quilts of Valor.