Parish, businesses and neighbors step up support for returning soldiers

Military wife says it will be best homecoming ever

St. Charles Parish, numerous residents and businesses have answered a local military wife’s plea and have all signed on to show support for seven parish soldiers that will return home for Christmas.

Abby Chabert, of Luling, has spent the last year anxiously awaiting her husband, Eric’s, return. And though Chabert works a full-time job and cares for the couple’s 4-year-old son, it hasn’t stopped her from trying to make sure all of the soldiers have a memorable homecoming.

On Veteran’s Day, Chabert asked for all residents and businesses to help show support in any way they could, such as tying a yellow ribbon somewhere on their homes or stores. But Chabert got much more of a response than she could have hoped for.

St. Charles Parish told Chabert that they will place banners at both the East and West Bank Bridge Parks that will read “Welcome Home.” Both parks will also be decorated with yellow bows and the courthouse and gazebo will have yellow bows placed on them in addition to the parish’s Christmas decorations.

“I was thrilled to hear back from Mr. (V.J.) St. Pierre’s office,” Chabert said. “Their office will be including yellow bows in the courthouse and decorating the bridge parks…which will show the strength of our community.”

Both J&K Printing and St. Charles Printing have also agreed to donate banners and signs to the welcome home effort. Residents have also told Chabert that they will do their part to show support by decorating their homes.

“I’ve received text messages, voice mails and posts on Facebook about the yellow ribbons,” she said. “I’ve noticed yellow ribbons here and there and it makes me smile…I know my neighbors are excited to help decorate.”

Chabert said she has already alerted the soldiers to let them know how excited the parish is for them to return.

“The day the Veteran’s Day article came out, I posted it on Facebook so everyone could read it,” she said. “Facebook has been our connection through this entire deployment. It’s been our communication tool with our soldiers and our families and it keeps them updated on current events.”

Chabert herself is anxiously waiting to see the soldiers’ response to the support.

“I believe they’ll see how much our community appreciates their service and sacrifice,” she said. “A yellow ribbon or sign is just a small reminder to them that they’re not forgotten, especially during the holiday season.

“I’m so excited about this. This will be the best welcome home ever.”

It’s not too late to show your support. Chabert said the soldiers should arrive between Dec. 15-18. The exact date and time of arrival will not be announced due to security reasons.