Navy Veteran Honored with Quilt of Valor Ceremony
Guest Contributor
On a warm August afternoon in Manson, Washington, a heartfelt ceremony unfolded at the Vista del Lago clubhouse. Surrounded by family, friends, and fellow veterans, U.S. Navy veteran Brian Thompson was honored with a Quilt of Valor—a handcrafted tribute to his military service and sacrifice. The event, hosted by the Lake Chelan Valley chapter of the Quilts of Valor Foundation, served as a moving reminder of the enduring gratitude owed to those who have served in uniform.
The quilt, stitched in patriotic red, white, and blue by the local Thimblebuns quilting group, was more than a symbol of warmth. It represented recognition, healing, and respect. Tracy Shaw and Chris Jamieson, representatives of the Quilts of Valor Foundation, presented the quilt and shared the organization’s mission. Shaw emphasized the importance of honoring Vietnam-era veterans, many of whom returned home to a divided nation. “These quilts are more than fabric and thread,” she said. “They’re a tangible tribute—an expression of respect and gratitude for sacrifices that were too often overlooked.”
Thompson’s journey to that moment began decades earlier. Raised on a dairy farm in Alfred, Maine, he graduated from Sanford High School in 1966 and was soon swept up in the era’s military draft. Rather than wait to be called, he enlisted in the Naval Reserve in February 1967. A recruiter promised him submarine duty and encouraged him to pursue training as an electronic technician. Thompson accepted the challenge.
After completing boot camp and submarine school in New London, Connecticut, he returned home briefly before beginning the Navy’s Electronic Technician “A” School in March 1968. Known for its demanding curriculum, the program tested students in mathematics, communication, and electronics. With a graduation rate of only 70 percent, it required both intellectual acuity and determination. Thompson graduated in November 1968 and was assigned to the USS Diodon (SS-349), a Balao-class submarine based in San Diego.
In January 1969, the USS Diodon departed for the Western Pacific, operating under the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet. The deployment lasted a full year, far longer than the typical six-month tour. During this time, Thompson served vital roles both day and night—monitoring sonar to detect nearby vessels and using electronic countermeasures to identify enemy missile and anti-aircraft sites. He was also responsible for critical onboard repairs, ensuring the submarine’s systems remained operational throughout the mission.
Ports of call during the deployment included Hong Kong, Subic Bay, Yokosuka, and Singapore, offering brief respites from the intensity of life at sea. After their return to San Diego, the Diodon underwent three months of repairs. As the Vietnam War began to de-escalate, Thompson transitioned to the Naval Reserve in March 1970, completing his six-year service commitment with distinction. His commendations included the Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal—each a testament to his dedication and discipline.
Following his military service, Thompson embarked on a successful civilian career. He began as a printing press technician with AM International in San Diego. In 1975, he joined Canon USA in Orange County, California, where he worked as a regional technical specialist. It was there that he met Nancy, his future wife and professional colleague. They married in July 1976, beginning a partnership that has now spanned five decades.
Later that year, Canon offered Thompson a leadership role in Dallas, Texas, where he served as regional manager until 1979. A new opportunity with EMF Corp. prompted a move to Redmond, Washington, where he built a 23-year career. Eventually, he joined Drywall Recycling Services, a Woodinville-based company focused on converting recycled drywall into agricultural fertilizer. He led the sales team until his retirement in 2022.
The Thompsons’ connection to Lake Chelan began long before retirement. In 2004, they purchased property on the lake’s south shore and later built a home there. Brian deepened his community involvement in 2012 by joining the Chelan 7 Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter, serving with the original Station 75 crew for eight years. Today, the couple divides their time between Caldwell, Idaho, and their cherished retreat in Manson.
During the ceremony, Chris Jamieson also presented Thompson with a Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin, described as “a lasting memento of the Nation’s thanks.” The gesture, like the quilt, was deeply meaningful. “I’m honored and very grateful to receive this amazing quilt,” Thompson said. “It will be a cherished possession.”
Witnessing this tribute, I found it striking how a simple quilt could carry such profound weight. The event was not only a celebration of one man’s service but a broader affirmation of the value of remembrance and community. As Thompson stood wrapped in his Quilt of Valor, surrounded by loved ones, it was clear that his legacy of service—both military and civilian—continues to resonate deeply.
For veterans across the country, ceremonies like this one offer more than recognition. They provide healing, connection, and a sense of belonging. Organizations like the Quilts of Valor Foundation and local groups such as Manson American Legion Post 108 play a vital role in ensuring that those who served are never forgotten.
