DICKSON, Tenn. (WSMV) - What appeared to be a typical Tuesday lunch at Shoney’s in Dickson became an emotional ceremony as two Vietnam-era veterans received handmade Quilts of Valor from a dedicated group of Middle Tennessee women.

The presentation took place during the weekly gathering of dozens of Vietnam-era veterans who meet in a back room next to an American flag to share meals, stories, and memories.

“It’s the camaraderie to pass old stories and everything like that,” said Stuart Martin, a Vietnam-era veteran who was among those honored.

Veterans receive emotional recognition

Each quilt represents hours of meticulous work by volunteers who say the effort is worthwhile to honor those who served.

“It’s a lot of work for sure. I tell people that it’s a minimum of 40 hours to make a

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