Daughters Surprise SCI Chaplain With Quilt Of Valor

The Rev. David Shirk, the Paducah, Ky.-based chaplain for Seamen’s Church Institute, was presented with a quilt from the Quilts of Valor Foundation, on May 20. The program honors nominated active-duty service members and veterans with a hand-made, custom-designed quilt to “wrap them” in love and comfort in gratitude for their service and sacrifice. Shirk, who served 35 years as a Navy chaplain before coming to SCI, was wrapped in the quilt by his twin, 17-year-old daughters, Audrey (left) and Clare, in a surprise ceremony that followed the elder Shirk swearing Clare in for her Navy service. Clare Shirk has been appointed to the Naval Academy Preparatory School, after which she will complete her education in the U.S. Naval Academy. Audrey Shirk has been appointed to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy Scholars Program and will complete her education at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. (Photo by Shelley Byrne)