Local chapters of WoodmenLife, a life‑insurance and retirement‑planning provider, gathered in Acadia Parish to honor seven veterans by presenting each one with a handmade Quilt of Valor. The touching ceremony took place at the Southwind Nursing & Rehab Center in Rayne and aimed to offer comfort and gratitude to veterans profoundly impacted by their service. Each veteran was individually wrapped in a lovingly crafted quilt, symbolizing community thanks and support. Among them was World War II veteran William Thibodeaux, who expressed deep gratitude:
“It makes me feel really proud…because now a days people recognize and really appreciate servicemen. Which at the time when I got out of the military it wasn’t like that at all.”
Thibodeaux said he plans to cherish his quilt year‑round:…