Some heroes wear uniforms long after their service ends. In Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, one Army veteran has traded his camouflage for a school bus driver's badge, continuing his legacy of service in a new, heartfelt way. Larry Haynes, a retired soldier and longtime truck driver, is now known to local students as the friendly face behind the wheel of bus 215. His story is a moving testament to dedication, resilience, and the quiet power of community care. For those interested in veteran stories, school bus safety, or inspiring local heroes, Haynes’ journey offers a compelling glimpse into a life well-lived in service of others.

Haynes' military path began in 1971 when he boarded a plane to Frankfurt, Germany, bound for Rhein-Main Air Force Base. As he recalls, the memory of that flight remains vivid even after decades. He was stationed at Fort Polk before his deployment, and he still owns the uniform he wore back then. “Now the sleeves come up almost to my elbows,” he said, reflecting on how much he’s grown since those early days. It’s a small detail, but one that speaks volumes about the passage of time and the enduring significance of that chapter in his life.

Military service runs deep in Haynes’ family. His father, Paul H. Haines, served in World War II, alongside his brother. That legacy of service clearly left a mark. “It’s an honor to serve in the military because it makes you grow up. Really,” Haynes shared. His words reflect a common sentiment among veterans — that military life instills discipline, maturity, and a deep sense of responsibility.

After completing his time in the Army, Haynes spent the next 40 years as a truck driver. The open road became his workplace, and the skills he honed in the military no doubt served him well behind the wheel. But even after retirement, Haynes wasn’t ready to stop driving or serving. Instead, he found a new way to blend both passions: becoming a school bus driver for Calcasieu Parish. It was a decision that surprised some. “A lot of people did ask me, ‘Why drive a school bus?’ You know, well, why not?” he said.

That simple question — why not? — captures the spirit of someone who sees value in every opportunity to contribute. Haynes didn’t just take on a job; he embraced a role that allows him to make a difference in the lives of young people every day. He refers to the students he transports as “my babies,” a term of endearment that underscores the affection and care he brings to the job. “They make my day,” he said, and it’s clear the feeling is mutual.

Haynes has even found ways to bring joy and creativity to his work. One year, at the suggestion of his daughter, he dressed up as Santa Claus for the holiday season. The costume was a hit with the younger children on his route, adding a festive touch to their daily routine. It’s a small gesture, but one that reflects his commitment to making each day special for the kids he serves.

I found this detail striking — that after decades of service in the military and on the road, Haynes continues to find joy in the simple act of showing up for others. It’s a reminder that heroism doesn’t always come in grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s found in the quiet consistency of someone who shows up each morning with a smile, ready to ensure children get to school safely.

Stories like Larry Haynes’ remind us that service doesn’t end with retirement from the military. For many veterans, the desire to contribute continues in new and meaningful ways. Whether it’s through school bus driving, volunteering, or community involvement, their impact is ongoing. Haynes’ journey from Army service to school bus safety is a powerful example of how one person’s dedication can ripple through a community, touching lives across generations.

In a world that often moves too fast to notice everyday heroes, it’s worth pausing to recognize individuals like Larry Haynes. His story is more than a local news feature — it’s a portrait of enduring commitment, of finding purpose in every stage of life, and of the quiet strength that defines true service.

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