DUSON, La. (KLFY) – A Duson couple has been inducted into the Louisiana Family Forum’s 2018 Marriage Hall of Fame.  

Wallace and Gladys Menard have been married for 79 years. The family says at the age of 25-years-old Wallace was drafted into the Navy to serve during WWII.  “I was married with two kids,” says Wallace. 

Wallace and nine other soldiers of the platoon contracted the mumps. “There were several of them.  They had an honorary medical discharge,” adds Gladys.

Once together again, the Menards worked to build the home they live in today. 

“Almost 60 years,” says Wallace.  

“No its 57 we’ve been living over here,” explains Gladys.

They say they share in the household chores. It’s what couples do to hit the 79 year marriage mark.  “I cook and she washes dishes; then I wipe them,” notes Wallace.

The Governor John Bel Edwards sent his well wishes in a letter. President Bush sent his congratulations when they reached their 70 year anniversary.

“We never fight (she giggles)?  Only one time (he smiles)?” says Wallace.

The Menards say they had two boys and a daughter who passed away at 6 weeks old.