A longtime Canadian Armed Forces veteran was recognized for his service during a special presentation at the Carman Legion late last month.
Don Lemon received a Quilt of Valour on March 31 at Royal Canadian Legion Branch #18 in Carman, surrounded by family, fellow Legion members and friends.
“I feel honoured to have received the Quilt of Valour,” Lemon said. “It was unexpected — and I think there are people out there more deserving than I am — but I am proud of this recognition.”
The quilt was presented by Nicole Young, regional representative from Quilts of Valour-Canada — a national organization that honours injured or ill military members and veterans with handmade quilts as a symbol of comfort and gratitude, and Edith Taylor who made the quilt.
Lemon served for 36 years as a communications technician with the Royal Canadian Air Force, with postings across Canada and at NATO in Europe. His decades-long career included supporting operations and communications systems both domestically and internationally.
Overall, Lemon said he had a very good career with the Air Force.
“When I retired, I was sorry because I still enjoyed my career and thought I had something to give,” he added. “The work wasn’t always easy, but it was worthwhile.
The most impactful parts of his career was travelling all over Canada and Europe, living, working and serving across much of the two countries.
His favourite spots include Gander, Nfld. and Germany because of the people and scenery.
As a communications technician, Lemon had opportunities to work on “state-of-the-art” equipment, including some of the earliest computers.
“They were huge and it was really something to experience,” he said. “It’s crazy to think something that size can all fit inside your phone now.”
The presentation ceremony recognized not only his years of service but also the sacrifices made by his family along the way.
Lemon’s wife, Valma, and son, Bryan, were in attendance for the ceremony, joining members of the legion branch and community supporters in marking the occasion.
Valma said she and her three sons — Bryan, Dwayne and Troy — were very fortunate to travel with Lemon through all of his career. They valued being able to stay together and said it shaped their relationships.
“We got to experience life together,” Velma added. “The military was very good to our family and Don receiving this quilt was such a great honour. He gave the military the best they could and now they are giving him the best.”
Quilts of Valour presentations are intended to provide a tangible expression of appreciation to veterans, offering both comfort and recognition for their contributions and commitment.
Young explained, to date, 28,002 Quilts of Valour have been compassionately stitched as a “heartfelt thank you” to veterans and Canadian Armed Forces members who have been injured, for their sacrifice and dedication to Canada.
“A Quilt of Valour is far more than a handmade blanket— it is a tangible expression of gratitude, respect, and comfort,” she added. “Each quilt is carefully crafted and presented with the intention of wrapping the recipient in warmth, both physically and emotionally. It symbolizes that their service has not been forgotten, and that Canadians deeply appreciate the sacrifices they have made. For many recipients, it offers a sense of recognition, healing, and connection.”
Recipients are nominated by the public, friends or family, then each nomination is carefully reviewed to ensure they meet the criteria. Young described the Quilt of Valour ceremonies as an “incredibly moving and humbling experience,” and the moment carries a profound meaning for everyone involved.
“Being part of that moment is not just an honour— it is something that stays with you long after the quilt has been wrapped around the shoulders of a deserving recipient.
The Carman ceremony served as a moment to reflect on Lemon’s military career and to thank him for his service to Canada.
Karen Maxwell, Carman Legion president, said the legion values moments like this.
“The motto of the Royal Canadian Legion is ‘We Will Remember Them,’” she said. “Don Lemon is a veteran and this is a special way of remembering his commitment to his Branch, Country, and Sovereign.”
She added Lemon’s service impacts past, present and future generations as an advocate and heavily involved legion member.
“The legion continues to support veterans today by providing support for their mental health, housing, and social reintegration,” she said. “Whatever is needed, the Legion is there for our veterans— we, as members of the Royal Canadian Legion, owe it to them to remember, honor and support them.”
