By ROBIN SHANNON

L’Observateur

LAPLACE – Weeks of preparation and collecting concluded with a room full of large smiles Wednesday afternoon as members of the St. John the Baptist Parish Young Marines collaborated with the staff of L’Observateur to deliver an assortment of gifts to the Southeast Louisiana War Veterans Home in Reserve.

Games, decks of cards, blankets, coffee, art supplies and various toiletries were dropped off into the waiting arms of veterans at the home, who were eager to spend time with the Young Marine Squadron.

“The kids love going over there because the residents come out of the woodwork to see them,” said Lt. Brian Bertrand of the St. John Sheriff’s Office, the unit commander for the Young Marines. “Some of the members of my platoon have become great friends with some of the residents.”

Sonya Hebert, director of activities for the veterans home, said she and the staff were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the community.

“These are the kinds of things they really need,” Hebert said. “We are always looking for new things to do with them. We are really grateful for the support.”

Bertrand said the partnership has been successful and added he is already throwing around ideas for next year.

“Next time we come, we want to fill a U-haul truck,” Bertrand said. “These men and women sacrificed so much to protect us and keep us free. It is time that they get the recognition they truly deserve. I want everyone in the community to know what it means to be a veteran.”