Tillsonburg Legion member honoured by Quilts of Valour presentation

Matt Brinn, centre with the quilt wrapped around him, was presented with a Quilt of Valour during veteran’s coffee hour at Legion Branch #153. He is surrounded by the other attendees to the private event for veterans. (Jeff Helsdon Photo)

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

In his role as Tillsonburg Legion’s Sergeant at Arms, Matt Brinn’s face is a familiar one to local residents who see him at the front of veteran parades. But what locals may not know is what he did for his country.

Brinn joined the Canadian Armed Forces in April of 1997 in the infantry. He was in Bosnia and Afghanistan in that role and then changed roles to an electrical distribution technician for the remainder of this time in the military. He also did tours to the United Arab Emirates, Nepal, the Congo and South Sudan.

For his military service, Brinn was recognized by the Quilts of Valour program after being nominated by Legion Branch 153 President Tom Brown. He received a quilt during the regular veteran’s coffee hour on June 4.

During the ceremony, Marsha Fishleigh of Quilts of Valour said only one per cent of the population serves the county in the military. All show great courage, bravery and strength.

“That is the trait of a hero,” she said.

She explained the quilt is symbolic of the many different experiences those in the military endure. The top part, pieced and stitched together, is a reminder of the diverse people the recipient served with in the military. The middle of the quilt brings warmth and comfort, while the backing provides strength, which is characteristic of the recipient.

“A piece of our hearts are sewn into each quilt,” she said.

Brown was looking at some of the different programs available to veterans, and when he learned more about Quilts of Valour, he thought of Brinn.

Brinn, now retired and is as is jokes a “semi-pro golfer”, wasn’t surprised with the award as he knew Brown nominated him, but was still honoured and humbled.