The seventh annual Veterans Luncheon was held Tuesday, July 3 at the Louisiana National Guard Readiness Center in Reserve, hosted by Parish President Natalie Robottom and St. John the Baptist Parish Council.

This event is held annual to honor the veterans who have fought for freedom. Robottom said this was a day to pay tribute to these unselfish heroes. The Rotary Club of LaPlace and the Young Marines served lunches and drinks. The featured speaker was U.S. Congressman Cedric Richmond, who personally thanked the military men and women who sacrificed their lives to protect the country. Recognition of military service branches was presented by Justice John Weimer and the Freedom Jazz Band.

Purple Heart Recipients:

Robert Berthelot – Army / Vietnam War, Purple Heart

Henry Elder Jr. – Army/ 101 Airborne, Purple Heart

Douglas Cambre – Army/ WWII, Purple Heart