GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - The Monday Quilters meet weekly to sew, visit, share their quilting knowledge, and, mainly, to have fun.  At the Annual Veterans Day Musical Tribute concert, they presented quilts, made by a group effort, to five deserving veterans who have served “down range.” Over the last eight years, they have presented 46 quilts.  This year, beautiful quilts were presented to the following veterans:

Donald Cornett was working as a meat cutter when he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1968.  After receiving his Advanced Individual Training, Don was sent to Vietnam.  He was assigned to the 25th Infantry Division, known as the “Wolfhounds,” that is based in Hawaii.  He served his first tour at the infamous Cu Chi tunnels for nine months, where he served as an M60 machine gunner in helicopters and advanced to the rank of Sergeant.  While fighting there, Don stepped on a booby trap, was wounded, and received the Purple Heart.  He recovered from those wounds and completed his second tour in 1970.  He worked at Beale Air Force Base and retired after 27 years of service.

Sergio Gonzalez served in the U.S. Army from 1965-1967 with 17 months in Vietnam.  He was stationed with the 25th Infantry in Cu Chi, Long Bihn, and Tay Ning.  He achieved the rank of E-4.

Larry Johnson served our country in the U.S. Army.  He served two tours of duty in Cambodia.  He was wounded on each of these tours.

Frank Melane served in the U.S. Army from February 1952 until November 1953.  He earned the Korean Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, United Nations Service Medal, Commendation Ribbon with Metal Pendant for meritorious service in Korea, Good Conduct Medal and Combat Infantryman Badge.

Tyrone Shaeffer served our country in the U.S. Army.  He was stationed 1967-1968 in Dong Tam, Vietnam.  He achieved the rank of Specialist 5th Class.  He earned Expert Sharpshooter status.