Special to
L’Observateur

LAPLACE — Some of the bravest took time to honor those making the most impact in St. John the Baptist Parish.

During their February meeting, American Legion Post 383 of LaPlace members presented their awards for Citizen of the Year, Law Enforcement Officer of the Year and Educator of the Year.

Those honored included Donald August (Citizen) of Rising Star Baptist Church, Lt. Bo Bessinger (Officer) of the St. John Sheriff’s Office and Antoinette Robinet (Educator), principal of Emily C. Watkins Elementary School.

More than 80 members of the American Legion and the Woman’s Auxiliary attended the meeting, held at LaBelle Place Reception Room at the invitation of the Baloney family.

The guest speaker was Carl Baloney, who greeted veterans and provided dinner, along with explanations of the functions of the family business.

Baloney also gave interested persons a tour of the facilities following the meeting.

During the meeting, eight candidates were initiated into the Post by Commander Dave Gatt.

For additional information about American Legion, call Gatt at 504-415-7405.