Triangle, VA—Throughout the history of this country, we have been regularly reminded that the blanket of freedom is not free.  That blanket—or, in this case, quilt—is on display at the National Museum of the Marine Corps.

The mission of the Quilts of Honor project is to “bestow a universal symbol and token of thanks, solace, and remembrance to those who serve in harm's way to protect and defend our lives and freedoms.”  These works of art are made by the loving hands of volunteers, who want veterans and today’s warriors to know that their sacrifices are appreciated.

This special Marine Corps quilt is titled “Freedom is not Free!”  It was designed and pieced by Flo Brooks of Stockton, California, and quilted by Gail Belmont of Valley Springs, California. 
Belmont, who serves as Quilts of Honor’s Executive Director, says the organization’s volunteers have provided patriotic quilts to service members since 2005, with the hope that they will provide comfort, love, and healing to those who have given so much. 

“The rich colors and symbols woven into the Marine Corps quilt help make it an incredibly moving and attractive piece, and the Museum is delighted to display it over the Memorial Day holiday,” said Museum Director Lin Ezell.

Visitors can see the “Freedom is not Free!” quilt on the second deck, where it will be on temporary exhibition through early June.  More information about Quilts of Honor can be found  at www.quiltsofhonor.org .

The National Museum of the Marine Corps is located at 18900 Jefferson Davis Highway in Triangle, Va. and is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily except December 25.  Admission and parking are free.  For more information, please call 703-784-6107 or visit the Museum’s website at www.usmcmuseum.org.