On February 29, 2024, Highland, California, American Legion Post 421 was honored by the Highland Chamber of Commerce as "Citizen of the Year." The award is presented to a person or group whose work "exemplifies volunteer spirit, citizenship and community pride." The award was presented by Highland Mayor Penny Lilburn to a group of Legionnaires, Auxiliary members and Sons. The post was honored for its long-standing history in the community and its dedicated participation in city events, such as the annual July 4th parade, highway cleanup and a yearly Memorial Day Ceremony that Post 421 hosts every year, just to name a few. Commander Josie Thomas accepted the award with the group with her on stage. Three other Highland council members were in attendance as well as representation from the offices of 23rd District Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh and 33rd Congressional District Congressman Pete Aguilar. Supervisor Dawn Rowe from the San Bernardino Board of Supervisors was in attendance.