It was a comforting gesture for Sharon Peaty who lost her boyfriend, Private Scott Palmer in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan in 2010.
Private Palmer lived in Sutherland Shire and was part of the Australian Special Forces unit.
Last month for her loss and sacrifice, Sharon was presented with a handmade quilt by Sydney representatives of the organisation Quilts of Valour.
Quilts of Valour Australia’s mission is to present quilts to service members and veterans of the ADF in recognition of their sacrifice for Australia whilst deployed on combat operations.
The recognition is also extended to the families of soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice, and others affected by war.
Quilts of Valour representatives Stan and Sue Allen presented the specially made quilt to Sharon at Cronulla RSL.
Sharon attended the presentation with her mother, Lynn.
“It was really lovely surprise, and an honour, to receive the quilt,” Sharon said.
“My particular quilt has squares contributed by a club called Sew Many Stitches, which were then sewn together by the Quilts of Valour team.
“I can see how they have, and will continue, to give comfort to many many others affected by war with their quilt presentations.
“The organisers and volunteers all but fund this themselves, and need more help from the public. I’m sure there would be many people the shire who would be able to help.
“It came as a bit of a surprise when they contacted me as it has been a while since Scott died.
“It’s a real honour. I can image lots of hours of work went into it. The result is so beautiful. It’s a work of art.
“It’s quite a moving presentation. They wrap you in the quilt and thank you for your sacrifice.
“It’s very comforting.
“I’m very proud of Scott and it is nice that he is remembered in this way.”
To find out more about Quilts of Valour or to volunteer go to:
https://quiltsofvalour.com.au/
https://www.facebook.com/QuiltsOfValourAustralia/?fref=ts
http://www.defence.gov.au/vale/PtePalmer/