During the American Legion Department of Louisiana Convention held at the Best Western Convention Center in Alexandria from June 8-11, 2023, (from left to right) 7th District National Security Commission Representative Jeff Schendel, Department National Security Commission Chairman Johnny Square, Post 77 Commander David Simon and Mire Fire Chief Shannon Richard presented the 2023 Department Firefighter of the Year Award to Bryson Tilton (holding plaque) from the Mire Volunteer Fire Department. Also participating in the presentation was Department Commander Allen Dunn (right). Tilton was nominated for the award by Post 77 from Rayne.