NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Eight World War II veterans from Louisianahave received the French government's highest medal, the Legion of Honor.

They include a soldier in the "Ghost Army" that tricked the Germans, one who led 55 days of fights behind enemy lines in Normandy and one who died after his medal was struck.

Consul Jean-Claude Brunet presented the medals Wednesday to Frank Peragine, Al Goudeau, and Ervin Aden of New Orleans, Albert Lasseigne of Houma, Joseph Latiolais  of Breaux Bridge, Anderson Wilson of Slidell, and John Remel of Gonzales.

The medal is generally not given posthumously, but the one made for Joseph Reich, of Covington, was given to his brothers.

More than 100 veterans who served in France during World War II were honored in similar events this year around the country.

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