In previous years, the Vital Life Foundation helped to host a Journey of Heroes trip, taking senior veterans to see the monuments in Washington, D.C. that were created in their honor. Prior to each departure, a local chapter of the Quilts of Valor Foundation would provide each veteran with a quilt. A Quilt of Valor is a quality, handmade quilt that is awarded to a service member or veteran who has been touched by war. In appreciation, it says:

Thank you for your service and sacrifice in serving our nation.

Even though the pandemic has temporarily put the Journey of Heroes program on hold, this year, 13 veterans from all branches of the military received quilts at seven different Marquis facilities. Staff at Marquis Newberg made sure to plan a very special day for veteran Sam Bass, creating a sign with his youthful photo from World War II that read, “Guess Who?”. It allowed Sam to be recognized by anyone entering the facility for his honorable commitment and bravery, and those interactions became contagious. The energy created by his service was felt all day at Newberg.