La. Veterans Group Disbands Amid Declining Numbers

METAIRIE, La. (AP) — After 28 years, the south Louisiana chapter of the

has disbanded because of dwindling numbers, a fate faced by several other military fraternities in recent years.

Eight men bound by the experience of wartime detention exchanged hugs and handshakes last week in Metairie for the group's last meeting.

Martin Richard, commander of the chapter, told The Times-Picayune there was a good turnot at Thursday's meeting, but normally only three to four ex-POWs show up.

At its peak in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the chapter counted 125 members, which included ex-POWs and spouses. Most of the veterans fought in World War II, some fought in Korea.