The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) recently honored the Levy County squad with the 2023 Team of the Year award.

In an FWC release, the Levy County officers received the FWC’s Division of Law Enforcement’s distinguished award.

The squad members include Lt. B.J. Johnson, officers Corrie Bell, Hailey Carroll and Landon Smith and officer specialists James Fox and Morgan Willis.

“Thanks to the hard work of these officers, 13 derelict vessels were removed from the Levy County coastline in 2022,” said FWC Col. Roger Young in the press release. “The pride they take in protecting the resources cherished by the local community is evident through their actions and professionalism.”

The squad consists of personnel ranging from one to 18 years of FWC service. The team has focused on resource operations, derelict vessel removal, boating under the influence enforcement, outreach even participation and raising funds for local charities like the Chiefland Rotary Club Fishing Tournament.

“You know you have a great team when they continuously self-evaluate and strive to improve their work area,” said FWC Capt. Rama Shuster, North Central Region Area Supervisor, in the press release. “I could not be prouder of the dedication and ownership this team has taken for the residents of Levy County.”