14 veterans comprise Legislative group

JUNEAU - Lawmakers with military backgrounds have formed a nonpartisan group and are calling it the Joint Alaska State Legislature Veterans' Caucus.

The 14-member group is designed to push for the needs and interests of veterans statewide.

Rep. Bill Thomas, a Haines Republican and Vietnam veteran and Sen. Charlie Huggins, a Wasilla Republican and retired Army colonel will serve as co-chairmen.

Other members are: Reps. Max Gruenberg, D-Anchorage; Alan Austerman, R-Kodiak; Bob Buch, D-Anchorage; John Coghill, R-North Pole; Wes Keller, R-Wasilla; Bob Lynn, R-Anchorage; Bob Lynn, R-Anchorage; Kurt Olson, R-Soldotna; Richard Foster, D-Nome and Bob Herron, D-Bethel.

Also among the group are: Sens. Con Bunde, R-Anchorage; Kim Elton, D-Juneau and Gary Stevens, R-Kodiak.