So sorry for your loss, it will bring you much comfort to make the quilt I am sure.
Were you wanting something to cuddle in, or something to look at? If you want more a "look at" type of quilt, I have an idea.
Take the front of the shirt, cut so that the pocket is somewhat central on the square (some blocks could include a strip of the buttons too). Then put all the pocket blocks on a wall hanging. Then, you have the pockets to tuck in little things he gave you (jewelry, wood whittling he did for you), or notes/cards he wrote you, or you could write little memories down and tuck them in. You could put photos in the pockets, etc. If you include anything, maybe would be best to put in scrapbooking acid free plastic envelopes or photo holding sheets to protect the photo and the quilt. This would also be a way to display his medals.
If you want a cuddling quilt, why not put a couple of the pockets on the end of a rectangular quilt, so that you could use it like a shawl, then tuck your hands in his shirt pockets to wrap around you.
I know you will think of the quilt that will be perfect for you.