On Sunday, December 6, 2015, the Quilts of Valor Foundation awarded two Veterans, Ronald Fritz and Dionne Babler, both of Belleville, with beautiful handmade quilts and matching pillowcases in honor of their service to our country.

The Quilts of Valor Foundation is a non-profit grassroots group of quilters from all across the US. An all-volunteer membership consists of over 10,000 quilters. Their mission is to honor and pay tribute to Veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.

Vicki Sasso and Linda Stolts of New Glarus presented the beautiful handmade quilts and pillowcases to Ronald and Dionne during a special Babler family Christmas gathering.

Shelby Fritz

Vicki Sasso, Ron Fritz, Linda Stolts and Dionne Babler.

Kaylin Ward Stampfl, Ron's niece, and Linda Babler, Ron's sister-in-law, crafted and sewed Ron's quilt. Dionne's quilt was designed and sewn by his wife, Linda Babler. Many hours of labor and heartfelt love went into making these "honorary" quilts.

Ronald Fritz was drafted into the US Army in 1970, during the Vietnam War. He served in-country from 1971-1972 as an E4 Army Specialist stationed at Vung-Tau. He served as an airframe repairman and volunteered as a door gunner. Ron served in two campaigns, flying missions over Vietnam and Cambodia. He served in the 101st Airborne Division, then later in the 1st Aviation Brigade. In 1972-1973, Ron finished his service in the Wisconsin National Guard, with the rank of Army Specialist 5 (E5).

Dionne volunteered and served in the Wisconsin National Guard from 1971-1977. His basic and AIT training were received at Fort Dix, New Jersey. He served in the 1158th Heavy Transportation Unit, finishing with the rank of Specialist 4.