[1]

In Creve Coeur, students prepared hand-made signs for the parade. (Photo/AP via DayLife)

— Throughout American history, returning veterans from conflicts abroad have been welcomed home with fanfare. But since the Iraq War ended last year, veterans of America’s most recently ended conflict have not yet received the praise.

But after Saturday in St. Louis, that will change.

Hundreds of veterans are expected to fill the streets of downtown St. Louis to participate in the first in the nation welcome home parade.

“These veterans didn’t ask for a parade, or a community show of support, or a gathering of people and organizations specifically focused on easing our warriors’ transition back to civilian life,” said Craig Schneider, who is organizing the event. “We’re throwing one anyway.”

The event is being backed by the city of St. Louis and financial support from Anheuser-Busch.

U.S. Rep. Russ Carnahan, D.-St. Louis, said on Friday that he plans to participate in the festivities.

“They say Missouri is the ‘Show Me’ state,” Carnahan said. “This time, the compassionate and patriotic people of St. Louis are showing the nation how quickly we can mobilize to thank those who have given so much for our nation.”

Organizers mainly used Facebook to organize and promote the parade. The parade will begin at noon, downtown at Kiener Plaza, and move across town to Union Station.