Knights of Columbus honor local heroes

The Donaldsonville Knights of Columbus honored local heroes at a banquet on Wednesday, April 18. The Patriotic Awards Banquet celebrated veterans, first responders, and outstanding high school students, among others who make great contributions to the community.

Patriotic Students of the Year, and juniors from JROTC programs received awards. Three Ascension Parish sheriff's deputies were honored for saving a man who attempted suicide in jail. Firefighters from both the volunteer and full-time fire department in Donaldsonville were also recognized, as well as firefighters from Napoleonville, Paincourtville, and Pierre Part.

Faithful navigator of Assemble 2101, Dwayne Dupre said the KC's contact local agencies who select honorees from their departments. He said they have been recognizing local heroes for a long time, and the event grows bigger each year. He added it means a lot to those who receive this honor.

"They really appreciate it, especially the sheriff's office and firefighters," said Dupre. "They come out, and they really speak highly of these guys that win. So it's a big honor for them."

Dupre said each winner is awarded a unique plaque that's tailored to the organization they represent. The fire department recipients get a firetruck, while law enforcement officers receive 3D cop cars. The ROTC cadets get a certificate, as well as a ribbon and medal that can be worn on their uniforms. Dupre makes the personalized awards himself.

Dupre said the patriotic degree is part of the fourth degree of the Knights of Columbus. He said handing out student awards is done nationwide, but their group takes it a step further by honoring local heroes as well.

The honorees are as follows:

Veteran:Wilson Waguespack, a 92-year-old World War II Army veteran

Firefighters:Nick Theriot of Pierre Part, Paul Corde of Napoleonville, Jason Giroir of Paincourtville, Jannet Chauez-Fuentes of Donaldsonville volunteer department, and Capt Adam Gautreaux of the full-time Donaldsonville department

Ascension Sheriff's Department:Lt. Robert Moses, Deputy David Calvit, and Deputy Paul Gauthier

Assumption Sheriff's Department: Deputy Brock Blanchard

West Ascension/Assumption Parole Office: Officer Evan Williams

ACHS Patriotic Senior: Micah Daggs

Assumption Patriotic Senior: Whitney Landry

Assumption JROTC: Andrew Lee

DHS Patriotic Senior: D'ondre Fisher

DHS JROTC: Coretta Johnson

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