Victoriano Garcia, a dedicated Knight and military veteran, served in the U.S. Army for 28 years, earning numerous awards including the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star, and holding key leadership roles such as Battalion Commander during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He holds advanced degrees in General Administration and Strategic Studies and retired as a Colonel. Garcia actively volunteers at St. James Catholic Church and supports family activities, including a focus on education for his children and grandchildren. Within the Knights of Columbus, he has held multiple leadership positions, including Grand Knight and Diocesan Deputy for the Diocese of Corpus Christi, leading his council and diocese to achieve significant charity milestones. He is this year’s recipient of the State Deputy Charities Award.

Joe LaFuente, a dedicated Knight born in Hereford, Texas, served in the Navy for 20 years as a Cryptologist and Intelligence Analyst, speaking six languages and traveling to 43 countries. After retiring, he became active in his parish life, volunteering as a lector, Eucharistic minister, and parish council member at St. Teresa of Jesus in Friona, Texas. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from Eastern New Mexico University and later worked as a Federal HR Specialist at Cannon Air Force Base in Clovis, NM, where he joined the Knights of Columbus, advancing to the Fourth Degree and serving in various leadership roles within his council and assembly. In 2018, he moved to Hereford to care for his father, continuing his service in the church and Knights activities, including district and diocesan leadership positions. Married for 45 years with two daughters and five grandchildren, Joe enjoys family time, golf, and smoking meats. He is this year's recipient of the State Deputy Unity Award.

The Fraternity Award honors Michael McLaughlin, a dedicated Knight with over 52 years of membership, whose leadership began in Texas 36 years ago. He has held numerous roles including Grand Knight, District Deputy, State Officer, and Executive Secretary for the Texas Knights of Columbus, serving in that capacity for 16 years. McLaughlin has been deeply active in community service, volunteering at Ronald McDonald House and assisting the homeless in Austin. He has successfully recruited 47 members and held key positions in various councils and assemblies. Married to Dawnn since 1976, with two daughters and five grandchildren, he exemplifies commitment both to his faith and community. He is this year’s recipient of the State Deputy Fraternity Award.

Jason Kelley is being honored with the State Deputy Patriotism Award for a life deeply rooted in Catholic faith, dedicated service to his country as a Marine veteran earning two commendations, tireless commitment to his family through years of demanding apprenticeship and career building, and extensive involvement in his parish as a leader in various capacities. Within the Knights of Columbus, he has exemplified their core values through numerous leadership roles and impactful initiatives, including wheelchair distributions and fostering unity among councils, all while demonstrating unwavering faith and integrity. Beyond the Knights, he actively participates in ACTS and Saint Kolbe communities, mentors youth, and contributes to Relay for Life, but his most cherished role remains as a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather, embodying the principles of faith, service, and family that define this award.