420 – Teresa Drag – HAWK, VFW, & Quilts of Valor

I recently had the privilege of speaking with Major Theresa Drag, a fellow Marine and veteran of the 1st LAAM (Light Anti-Aircraft Missile) Battalion, Alpha Battery, where she served as a crew member on the HAWK Missile System. It’s always meaningful to connect with someone who understands both the military experience and the craft of creating something with their hands. Our conversation spanned Major Drag's military career, her transition back to civilian life, and her continued service with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in South Paris, Maine. Through her active role in VFW Post 9787, Major Drag is helping shape a vibrant community space that supports veterans and their families, fostering connections that reach beyond military service. As a dedicated quilter, Major Drag also shared her involvement with the Quilts of Valor initiative. This inspiring program provides handmade quilts to veterans, offering warmth, comfort, and a tangible reminder of appreciation. Hearing about how these quilts are made, I found myself drawn to the process. Like my own experience with crochet, quilting requires time, dedication, and an understanding of the importance of each stitch. Quilts of Valor serves as a testament to the fabric of service, community, and pride, creating something that will be cherished for generations. Thank you, Major Drag, for your service, your artistry, and your continued dedication to veterans. You can follow VFW Post 9787 on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/VFW9787) to see more of the great work happening in South Paris, Maine. Learn more about the Quilts of Valor Foundation at qovf.org.