The Cotton Rose Quilters Guild held a winter meeting in 2025 dedicated to honoring veterans. This special gathering featured Randy Ross, the Pike County Veterans Affairs Officer, who expressed gratitude for the service of veterans and their unwavering commitment to the nation. He emphasized the importance of recognizing these individuals, stating that they embody the values of pride and dedication in their service to the country.
During the event, each veteran was presented with a handmade quilt, symbolizing the community’s appreciation for their sacrifices. Ross remarked, “The Cotton Rose Quilters honored each veteran with a special token of appreciation — a quilt of blocks handmade by the quilters.” The quilts were crafted with care, with individual contributions pieced together to create a unique patchwork for each honoree. The presentation was met with heartfelt gratitude from the veterans, who acknowledged the love and effort embedded in every stitch.
Honoring Individual Service
The ceremony included personal recognition of each veteran, with stories highlighting their diverse experiences and contributions. Among the honorees was Ronnie Baker, who joined the National Guard in 1968. He served as part of the 11-33rd Medical Unit in Montgomery, later transitioning to the regular Army with the 167th Transportation Unit in Troy. Baker’s service included deployment to Panama and Hungary during significant military operations. He received numerous awards and medals over his career before retiring in April 2003.
Another honoree, Lawrence Bishop, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1983, training as a Blackhawk helicopter mechanic. His career took him through various roles, including a deployment to Northern Iraq for humanitarian missions after Desert Storm. After 30 years of service, Bishop retired in 2017 with the rank of Colonel, settling in Enterprise.
Christopher Carroll, who enlisted in the Army in February 1989, served as a Combat Engineer and participated in Operation Desert Storm, earning several commendations, including a medal from the Saudi Arabian Government for his contributions. Following his time in the military, Carroll transitioned to a career at Lockheed Martin, where he continues to support modern soldiers.
Staff Sergeant Kellie Davis Curtis shared a different perspective of military service. She began her journey with the Air Force at Lackland Air Force Base, later training as a Medical Laboratory Technologist. Curtis’s career spanned multiple locations, including Turkey and Guam, where she faced unique challenges in her medical duties. Over ten years of service, she made significant contributions to the health of her fellow service members.
The final honoree, Michael Warren, volunteered for the Army during the Vietnam War. His role in reconnaissance missions put him in perilous situations, where he demonstrated remarkable bravery. Warren’s life was saved by Captain Terry Gardner, who defied orders to rescue him and his team from enemy fire. Warren was honorably discharged in 1966, leaving a legacy of courage and dedication.
A Community of Support
The event was not only a tribute to veteran service but also a testament to the ongoing support provided by local organizations. Elaine McLeod, a notable figure in the veteran community, was unable to attend as she was engaged in another veterans’ celebration. McLeod, a former Army member and current Commander of the American Legion in Ozark, has been a driving force in initiatives aimed at improving veterans’ lives, including her work with the non-profit Vet 4 Vets and the development of Veteran’s Village.
In recognition of her efforts, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville named McLeod the July Veteran of the Wiregrass in 2025. He acknowledged her tireless work addressing issues such as homelessness and food insecurity among veterans, highlighting her commitment to enhancing their quality of life.
The Cotton Rose Quilters Guild’s winter meeting exemplified community spirit and the importance of honoring those who have served. The handmade quilts serve as a lasting reminder of gratitude and the strong bonds formed among veterans and their supporters. Through events like these, the legacy of military service endures, fostering a sense of recognition and unity within the community.
