By ROBIN SHANNON
L’Observateur

RESERVE — Joined by friends, family and fellow veterans, a jubilant group of retired veterans living in the Southeast Louisiana War Veterans Home in Reserve gathered with their wives to renew their wedding vows in a ceremony held Thursday.

The eight grooms sat in waiting at a makeshift altar as their wives, escorted one by one, entered the hall to traditional wedding music played on the house piano. The touching ceremony was officiated by Fr. Joseph Rodney, head pastor at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, who often celebrates mass for the veterans at the home.

“Wars could not keep you apart,” said Rodney. “You all stayed together and remained together — some of you for more than half a century — and that is a wonderful thing. You set an exceptional example to all of our young people, who often struggle through marriage.”

Following the five-minute ceremony, the happy couples shared a kiss and moved on to cut the cake and enjoy other refreshments.

Those celebrating anniversaries in Thursday’s ceremony included: Evander and Judy Stewart, who have been together 40 years, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Gray, who are celebrating 40 years, Leonard and Joy Morgan, who are enjoying 43 years of marriage, Arnold and Betty Nelson, who have been together 54 years, Mr. and Mrs. Brian Franks, who are enjoying 61 years of marriage, Mr. and Mrs. John Varenholt, who are celebrating 62 1/2 years, Charles and Corriane Olge, who have made it 63 years, and Mr. and Mrs. Murphy Laurent, who have lasted 65 years together.

A ninth groom, John Beauvais, was also scheduled to be a part of the renewal festivities, but said his wife of 28 years was slowed by a flat tire on her car.

“It’s ok,” said Beauvais. “She coming out to see me in two weeks.”