Game Warden Joe Johnston has been named Officer of the Year by the Southeastern Association of Fishing and Wildlife agencies.

Johnston was chosen from nominees in six state districts. A ceremony was held for him and the other officers last week in Mobile.

The eight-year veteran with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources does not like to talk about himself, but said he has always enjoyed his job in the law enforcement field.

Johnston’s boss, Assistant District Supervisor Mark Rouleau, has no qualms about praising the works of his officer.

Rouleau was also the person who nominated Johnston for the award, which was seconded by Chief Allen Andress.

Representatives from 19 states attended the event on Oct. 14 and Johnston was recognized as the best in Alabama.

The district supervisor described Johnston as a &uot;sharp officer&uot; who excels in his work.

One of those arrests took place Monday when Johnston was involved in the recovery of Civil War-era artifacts improperly taken from the depths of the Alabama River.

Though the incident took place after he received the award, Andress used it as an example of Johnston’s take-charge attitude.

Andress said he approved Johnston’s nomination for the award because the game warden is always distinguishing himself through his work.

As the new Officer of the Year, Johnston received a plaque to commemorate his service.