On May 5, 2025, Vietnam Army Veteran, E-5, Sergeant, Robert “Bob” Pohlen, Tracy was presented with a Quilt of Valor following the American Legion meeting in Currie. The quilt is given in honor, appreciation and thanks for his service; and to bring comfort, peace and healing.
Pohlen entered the U.S. Army in 1968. He, along with many other 18-year-olds, went to Sioux Falls for a physical, not knowing that from there, they would be sent right to basic training at Fort Lewis. No chance to say goodbye. He was sent to Vietnam, where he served in the 101st Airborne Division. In May 1969, he fought in the Battle of Hamburger Hill, a fierce battle that lasted 10 days, resulting in 72 deaths and 400 wounded. Bob was wounded in the back of his head and his leg. Following his recovery, he was sent to Korea to guard the DMZ until he was honorably discharged in 1970. He was awarded the Purple Heart.
Dennis Johnson from the American Legion, welcomed Bob and his family, guests, and Janna Milbrandt and Jill Defries from “Pieces for Heroes, Quilts of Valor.” Milbrandt spoke briefly about Quilts of Valor. Milbrandt and Defries then presented Pohlen with his quilt.
• Quilts of Valor Foundation (QOVF), was established in 2003 by Catherine Roberts to “cover Service Members and living Veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.” Since 2003 more than 403,000 quilts have been created and presented to veterans and active military members.
