The Canyon Lake Patriotic Quilters recognized longtime Canyon Lake resident Jack Wamsley with a patriotic quilt in appreciation of his military service, career in public safety, and his lasting contributions to the Canyon Lake community.
Wamsley was recognized during the August 5 Canyon Lake City Council meeting, but he was unable to attend the ceremony. On August 24, members of the Patriotic Quilters group and Councilman Dale Welty visited Wamsley at his home to personally present him with the quilt.
Wamsley enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1950 and was stationed at March Air Force Base. He also served overseas.
In 1956, Wamsley joined the Los Angeles County Fire Department, where he spent 30 years. After retiring from the fire department, he began a second career as a safety advisor for the film industry, a position he held for 20 years.
During his time in the film industry, Wamsley worked on more than 200 movies, helping ensure safety on film sets.
A longtime resident, Wamsley played a key role in the city’s incorporation on December 1, 1990. He served on the Incorporation Committee, helping lay the groundwork for the community’s future as an incorporated city. Wamsley also served as a member of Canyon Lake’s first city council.
In a previous interview, Wamsely reflected on his role in the city’s incorporation, saying, “There are a few times in life when you’re able to develop something we know will last for hundreds of years. I’m proud that I had the opportunity to do that.”
Now, nearly 36 years later, 95-year-old Wamsley continues to call Canyon Lake home.
The patriotic quilt not only honors Wamsley’s military service but also celebrates a lifetime of service, dedication, and community involvement.
The mission of the Patriotic Quilters of Canyon Lake is to honor and thank local veterans and active duty service members for their service by presenting them with handmade patriotic quilts. The recipients are chosen by nominations and through free raffles during major community events. To nominate a Canyon Lake veteran or active duty service member to receive a patriotic quilt, contact Ronda McCord at 714-609-0581.
