Business leaders and elected officials, from Mayor William Massengill to U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge, filled the American Legion's banquet hall to hear a litany of accomplishments.

The award winners were:

Citizen of the Year -- Hampton Johnson. The 80-year-old was honored for a lifetime of service to the town, including his career as an entrepreneur, his stint on the Benson Board of Commissioners, his involvement in the Lions Club and his involvement in Mule Days since its inception.

Small Business Person of the Year -- Libby Johnson. The retired teacher was honored for her work in the family business, Edmond's/Libby's Gifts. She converted the clothing store, one of Benson's longest-running stores, to a gift and collectibles store.

Business of the Year -- Polymer Group Inc., for providing jobs to hundreds of Benson residents at its non-woven-materials plant.

Chamber Board of Directors Award -- Ricky Young, for his volunteer work in chamber activities.

Chamber Ambassadors of the Year -- Rose Allen, Richard Davis and Brian Stewart.

Educator of the Year -- Rodney Peterson. The Meadow School principal was honored for improving the school's academics and helping make it a "School of Distinction" by state standards.

Lions Club Volunteer Award -- Ken Tart. The photographer was recognized for his youth leadership and missions work at Benson Baptist Church. Also, he was honored for his service on the Johnston County Arts Council.

Kiwanis Club Humanitarian Award -- the Rev. Jeff Person. The Benson Church of God pastor was honored for organizing the Area Christians Together in Service food pantry and for leading the Benson Area Ministerial Association.

Benson Junior Woman's Club Arts Award -- Raymond "Washboard Ray" Jones. The musician was recognized for bringing music and arts to underprivileged kids. Also, he was recognized for performing at local nursing homes and churches.

Law Enforcement Officer of the Year -- Benson police Lt. Greg Percy.

Firefighter of the Year -- Kevin Godwin.

Benson Area Women's Organization Outstanding Youth -- Annah Marie Lee. The South Johnston High senior was honored for her strong academics, volunteer work and leadership.

Benson Area Women's Organization Outstanding Senior Citizen -- Master Sgt. Gary Whitman. The educator and police officer was honored for decades of teaching anti-drug and anti-gang classes in local schools.

Benson Area Woman's Organization Outstanding Woman -- Lisa Smith. Smith was recognized for 20 years of work with the Benson Parks and Recreation Department. Also, she was honored for her volunteer work with the Johnston County Senior Games.