October 30, 2025 | Riverview Retirement Community
Honoring Service Through Stitching: A Quilt of Valor
At Riverview Retirement Community, acts of kindness and creativity are woven into daily life – sometimes quite literally. Resident Jan Krepcik recently completed a heartfelt project that embodies gratitude, craftsmanship, and community spirit: a Quilt of Valor presented to fellow resident Lt. Col. (Retired) Norman Bomkamp, a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps. Norm served 20 years active duty, including three tours in Vietnam, where he flew the CH-46 Helicopter, providing rescue and supply support for the infantry. His personal awards and decorations include: the Distinguished Flying Cross; Air Medal with Numeral 20; Bronze Star with Combat “V”; the Purple Heart; and the Combat Action Ribbon.
The Quilts of Valor Foundation is a national organization dedicated to comforting service members and veterans touched by war through the gift of a handmade quilt. Each quilt, hand-made by the ladies in the Garland Quilts of Valor Group, represents hours of care and craftsmanship, symbolizing warmth, appreciation, and healing. For Jan, presenting one for a friend and neighbor made the process all the more meaningful.
This isn’t Jan’s first time recognizing veterans in this special way. When asked how many quilts she has given, Jan shared “I’ve presented 40 Quilts of Valor here in the village in the past three years. I joined the group in 2015.” Her ongoing commitment over 10 years reflects her passion and deep respect for those who have served.
It’s just one of the ways Jan uses her artistic ability for good. She also enjoys Brazilian embroidery, a style of three-dimensional embroidery that originated with threads made in Brazil. Jan creates several pieces that she sells at the annual Riverview Craft Fair and teaches the craft to anyone eager to learn.
When the quilt was presented, Norm thanked Jan wholeheartedly for the gesture. “Thank you very much, it’s really wonderful,” he said, smiling as he examined the fine details. The quilt itself, pictured below, is a stunning tribute to his time in the Marines. It features Marine-themed fabric squares set against a black and gold background, with stars delicately stitched throughout. It is a design that honors both his service and the enduring spirit of the Marine Corps.
Reflecting on his time in the military, Norm shared, “I went in for four years, and stayed for twenty,” he said with a laugh. “I was in the infantry to start with, then I got into flying helicopters mostly. I enjoyed doing that and stuck with it. I also had a wife that backed me up very well.”
“You have to be a good support in any way you can,” Judy Bomkamp, Norm’s wife, agrees with a smile.
The finely crafted quilt now sits comfortably on the Bomkamps’ couch, displaying the intricate details for all who visit. It also provides warmth and comfort in these upcoming cold months, and serves as a lasting reminder of Norm’s dedication to his country.
Moments like this highlight what makes Riverview special: a community where talents are shared, friendships thrive, and appreciation for one another runs deep. Through her love for veterans, Jan gave a gift that goes beyond fabric and thread – it’s a symbol of unity, respect, and gratitude that will be cherished for years to come.
