Member of American Legion Post 217 in Lexington receives Quilt of Valor honor

A Quilt of Valor (QOV) is a quality, handmade quilt that is machine or hand quilted. It is awarded to a service Member or Veteran who has been touched by war. The quilt says unequivocally, “Thank you for your service and sacrifice in serving our nation.” To use the term Valor, Quilts of Valor, QOV, the quilt must be a specific size, must have a label with required information, it must be awarded (it is not a gift) and it must be recorded.

On Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, at Mount Olive C.M.E. Church on Gibson Road in Lexington, S.C., Robert Lee “Bob” Cook was the recipient of the Quilt of Valor. American Legion Post 217 Commander John Summers (who was present on Dec. 7, 2025, along with several Post 217 members) was instrumental in completing all requirements and assuring that event was a success. Rev. Mannis, pastor of Mount Olive C.M.E. Church, conducted his regular service that morning and included the special ceremony at the end of service.

Robert Lee “Bob” Cook was born in Gilbert, S.C., on Feb. 26, 1933. He was married to the late, Eva Jones Cook. He is the father of 10 children (Alice Osby, Rose Cook, Rodney Cook, Andrew Cook, Albert Cook, Windall Cook, Kevin J. Cook, Cleon Cook, Patrick Cook, Britney Cook-Garea). He is a life member of Mount Olive C.M.E. Church. He has served in many capacities at the church including: Senior Choir, Male Chorus and Steward.

Cook entered the United States Army in 1953 and received basic training at Camp Atterbury in Indiana. After basic training, he received infantry training at Fort Carson, Colorado. While serving active duty, he received additional training in automotive technology. In 1955, he was honorably discharged. In 1957, he was hired by Lexington County School District One as an auto (bus) mechanic, a position he would hold until his retirement in 2018.

Robert Lee “Bob” Cook joined American Legion Post 217 in 1957. His first Commander was Charles Derrick, Sr. He has been a member of Post 217 for 69 years.

We proudly salute Mr. Robert Lee “Bob” Cook.