Service to others is woven into nearly every part of life for Ashley and Robert Chastant and their three daughters.

Robert served 20 years in the United States Marine Corps, a career that took the family across the country before ultimately bringing them home to Northern Virginia. “I had the privilege of serving alongside the small percentage of Americans who take an oath to defend the Constitution and protect the freedoms our nation was built upon,” Robert said. “When I reflect on what being an American means to me, the first thing that comes to mind is honor.”

The Chastant family has lived in the neighborhood for three years with their daughters: Annelise, 21, who attends the University of Mary Washington; Londyn, 17, who attends school in Louisiana; and Carlisle, 5.

Ashley grew up in the Mount Vernon area, while Robert is originally from New Iberia, Louisiana. During his military career, Robert was stationed in California, North Carolina, and Mississippi.

“Ashley always hoped to return to the Alexandria area,” they explained. “After Robert’s second tour at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, he secured a position at Marine Corps Base Quantico, where he spent the final three years of his military career.”

While Alexandria may technically be Ashley’s hometown, Robert often says it feels like where he was always meant to be. “Alexandria is home for us,” the couple said.

For Robert, military service was never part of his original plan: “Ironically, I was the last one among my friends to enlist, yet I’m the only one who went on to serve for 20 years.”

Growing up in a small Louisiana town helped shape his outlook and appreciation for service.

“My service gave me a broader perspective on life, family, and purpose,” Robert said. “It shaped me into someone I never imagined becoming and taught me not to take anything for granted. Above all, it gave me a deep appreciation for every day I get to spend with my family.”

The lessons learned during his Marine Corps career continue to guide him today.

“Twenty years in the Marine Corps taught me that real leaders inspire others to want to work with them, not for them,” Robert explained. “You serve them, and that is how you earn trust.”

He also lives by a personal philosophy: “The day you think you’ve learned enough is the day you become an imbecile.”

Ashley’s career has also centered around supporting military communities and service members. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Mary Washington and a master’s degree in Education, she transitioned from teaching in public schools into work as a Department of Defense training and education consultant supporting United States Special Operations Commands and Marine Corps and Navy training commands.

Robert earned both his bachelor’s degree in Business Management and his MBA in Government Contracting and Acquisitions from American Military University. He now serves as the Manager of Fleet Solutions at CBRE.

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Ashley reflected on what being American means to her family.

“For me, being an American means looking at my children and feeling deeply grateful that they are growing up in a place where they are safe, free, and able to live harmoniously with others,” Ashley said. “I feel incredibly blessed to have been born in America and remain profoundly grateful for the service members, police officers, firefighters, and first responders who dedicate themselves to protecting our freedoms and communities.”

Family life keeps everyone busy. Carlisle participates in piano, ice skating, gymnastics, dance, and swim lessons. She also loves languages and will begin a Spanish immersion program next year, the same program Ashley once attended.

Londyn is involved in competitive dance, while Annelise now coaches middle school lacrosse after her own varsity lacrosse career. She plans to pursue graduate school after graduating next year with a degree in Psychology and a minor in Neuroscience.

The family also includes a very vocal Bluetick Coonhound puppy named Mabel.

“We are definitely a hound dog family,” they joked. “We apologize in advance to anyone who hears her enthusiastic baying.”

When they are not juggling activities and volunteer commitments, the Chastants enjoy traveling, antiquing, live music, and spending time outdoors around the community. Favorite local traditions include picnics at Fort Hunt Park, summer days at Mount Vernon Park Association, trips to The Custard Shack, and visits to the Variety Store.

“You might see Robert driving around the neighborhood in his 1970s PPV — People Powered Vehicle,” Ashley added.

Service and volunteering remain central to family life. Ashley serves as an Elder at Heritage Presbyterian Church, where she supports children’s and youth ministry, chairs the Christmas Market, and participates in mission initiatives. Summers are filled with pool and swim team volunteer activities, and Ashley is already looking forward to joining the PTA and starting a Girl Scout troop when Carlisle begins elementary school this fall.

“Robert jokes that Ashley has a ‘helium hand’ — if help is needed, she is quick to volunteer,” they said. “Fortunately, Robert is always supportive and happy to join in as well.”

The Chastants especially enjoy neighborhood events organized by BHCA and BHWC and have formed close friendships through community gatherings and mahjong nights.

“We feel incredibly fortunate to live on a quiet cul-de-sac with such welcoming neighbors,” they shared. “From our very first days in the neighborhood, the Hillvale community made us feel at home.”