The American Legion Post 123 honored Christopher M. Ondrus with the Lansford Person of the Year Award/Tom Dobash Memorial Award at a dinner Saturday night.

Approximately 50 friends, family and Legion members attended the dinner and presentation of the annual award, which recognizes dedication and commitment to community service.

Post Commander Nate Krajcirik presented the award to the 44-year-old Ondrus, who has been involved in the community for 26 years. He shared anecdotes revealing his personality and commitment to Lansford.

A Lansford native, Ondrus became active in the community at 18 when he served four years on borough council, and served again in 2008. He also served on the borough planning commission.

Ondrus was a member of the 125th Anniversary Committee and helped to coordinate its parade in 2001.

He served as a police officer in Lansford, remaining active part-time for nearly 20 years, and also worked as an officer in Tamaqua and Coaldale.

Ondrus has also been involved community organizations, including the American Fire Co. No. 1, Panther Valley Public Library board, Lansford Historical Society secretary, and Lansford Democratic Club president.

He also served on the board of the Carbon-Schuylkill Industrial Development Corporation.

Ondrus currently serves as president of Lansford Alive, a community organization which he has been involved with for more than 20 years. The group works on community improvements and with downtown businesses.

He has been employed by Infinera Corporation in Allentown for the last 18 years, currently on their product validation and test development team.

Ondrus and his wife, Janelle, have a 4-year-old son, Ayden Joseph, and he is the son of Joseph and Marie Ondrus.

Lansford Alive member Bob Silver offered remarks regarding his personal and professional relationship with Ondrus. Another member, Joe Genits, said more people like Ondrus are needed to make the community a better place for all.

Christine LeClair, first vice commander and director of Carbon County Veterans Affairs, also spoke during the dinner about veterans, the history of the Legion and offered the POW/MIA Remembrance.