Injured Soldier Returns Home To Hero’s Welcome | News

BRIDGETON, MO (KTVI) – An soldier recovering from serious injuries in Afghanistan received a hero’s welcome Tuesday at Lambert Airport. It was a bright spot in what has been a challenging road to recovery.

It was the moment Chaz Ligon and his mom had been waiting for. The 21-year-old Army Corporal lost part of his left leg and suffered other serious injuries last December while serving in Afghanistan.

The unit he was riding in hit a roadside bomb. Three of his fellow soldiers died. Chaz and another soldier were hurt. This is the first time Chaz has come home since the incident.

What a welcome home it was. Members of the Patriot Guard lined a Lambert hallway for Chaz. The Lambert USO even brought out a service dog.

“Been away from home for so long and to get a welcome like this, from where I’m from, to be recognized by everyone from back home, it’s an honor,” said Chaz.

Chaz’s mom Suzanne Willmore was moved by the Patriot Guard’s show of support, “They provide a service that you can’t describe how touched you feel.”

The Patriot Guard riders say it’s uplifting for them to welcome home a soldier who is still alive, especially since they escort the bodies of so many military members who are killed.

Patriot Guard Gary Cook explains, “I honor him for his service. I’m very proud of that young man. He has given more than he should have had to by losing that leg and everything.”

The Patriot Guard escorted Chaz and his family back to their hometown of West Frankfurt, Illinois.

Chaz knows he’s lucky to be here and he’ll never forget the friends he lost on that fateful day last December, “I’m here for them.  They gave their lives so I could be here. I’m here for them. I’m just trying to live life as good as I can.”

Chaz has been recovering at a military hospital in Texas. He’s home on leave for 24 days.