Westlake Firefighter Francis “Frank” Hidalgo, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Deputy Dayton LaBorde and Calcasieu Parish School Board teacher Christy Page were honored by the American Legion Post 370 in Westlake Tuesday.

“Every year for 50-plus years, we honor a firefighter, teacher and law enforcement officer,” said Charles “Charlie” Aucoin, post commander.

Twenty-year fire-fighting veteran Hidalgo was described as a dedicated individual whose unwavering commitment to service has made a profound impact in both the military and civilian sectors. Hidalgo, a full-time firefighter, began his career with enlistment in the U.S. Army. “He embodies the true spirit of service and is a shining example of what it means to be a hero in every sense of the word.

Page, Westwood Elementary teacher, has been tireless at serving her community as a teacher and volunteer. She was a Prime Time Reader volunteer, served at the local food bank, volunteered with Pick up Calcasieu, participated in Adopt a Family for Christmas, has Christmas caroled at the Westlake Senior Center, planted trees at Sam Houston Jones Park and more.

Dayton has been with the CPSO since 2019 and currently serves as Training Officer on Patrol, and was described as passionate about serving the community and keeping the public safe, coming to work energetic and ready to work and keeping other shift members motivated.

The Westlake Post was established in 1967. Its focus is “veterans serving veterans,” Aucoin said.