VFW Post 8971 recognizes public workers, post help

The VFW Post 8971 held an Awards Night Monday, recognizing and honoring some of Eunice’s public servants.
Presentation of plaques and appreciation certificates were handed to recipients by Post Commander Gene Olivier.
Eliot Bertrand received the Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. Bertrand has been working with the St. Landry Sheriff Department for the past 10 years. His supervisor is Ricky Leger, Sr.
Fireman of the Year award went to Kevin Lalonde. His supervisor is Fire Chief Michael Arnold.
Steve Miller was presented with Volunteer Fireman of the Year. His supervisor is Harrol Johnson.
Brandon Soileau received the EMT of the Year.
Educators were recognized, as Trisha Langley was honored with Pre-K Teacher of the Year at East Elementary.
Merline Bollich was recognized as Elementary Teacher of the Year at East Elementary.
Olivier presented Comrade Adeiue (Junior) Ardoin, Jr. with the Post Veteran of the Year Award.
A book, “Korea Reborn, A Grateful Nation honors War Veterans for 60 years of Growth,” by Park Geun-hye, was presented to Korean veterans Jessie Bergeron (posthumously) and Dallas Matte of Eunice in honor and recognition of their service.
Olivier presented a handful of Post Commander Golden Awards to recipients in appreciation of their service, commitment and dedication to their cause or duties.
Rebecca Berzas, a FFA teacher at Eunice High School, was recognized for a school ceremony she organized for Veteran’s Day.
Gus Miller, one of the oldest members of the VFW, was honored for his outstanding help with the annual Veterans’ Day ceremony held each year recognizing veterans.
Jim Adkins and Larry LeJeune were honored for their commitment and service as committee chairmen for the recent Vietnam Veterans recognition program honoring six area families who lost loved ones in the Vietnam War.
Roger Veillon was honored for his outstanding work as committee chairman for the annual Veteran’s Day celebration.
Donald (Gene) Young was recognized as membership chairman for the post. Olivier said, “With his help our post 8971 ranks 17th in the nation in Division 6.”
Alvin Wilson was recognized as outstanding Honors Guard Captain.
Donald Estillette was honored for his outstanding 30 years as Post Chaplain and assistant quartermaster.
Bernita Briscoe was honored as a dedicated and committed membership chairman for VFW Ladies Auxiliary.
Albert Roy Olivier was recognized for an outstanding job as district 7 meeting Committee Chairman.
Lynn Pousson, post secretary, was commended for her outstanding service and commitment to the post serving as secretary getting all paperwork done for the post.
Terry Matte was recognized for outstanding contributions to post projects.