HAMLET ― The N.C. State Highway Patrol office is getting two new first sergeants following a promotional ceremony.
The Highway Patrol on Monday honored 55 sworn and 11 civilian members Colonial Baptist Church in Cary, according to a press release.
Sgt. J.A. Williams of Rutherford County and Sgt. R.G. Houge of Gaston County were both promoted to first sergeant and will be stationed in Richmond County.
“Your new position requires the acceptance and affirmation of an oath, a commitment to God, country, state, to North Carolina’s citizens and to your colleagues,” Col. Glenn McNeill Jr. told the troopers of their expectations. “Your sworn commitment is that you will, to the best of your ability, perform the duties of your office.”
Providing the keynote address, Gov. Roy Cooper commended the excellent work demonstrated by each member, focusing on the attribute of leadership.
“To be a leader, you must be willing to do yourself anything you order someone else to do. You must set an example with your actions as well as your words,” said Cooper. “I’m grateful every single day for the service of law enforcement officers across our state, particularly the men and women of the North Carolina Highway Patrol. True leadership is a quality in short supply but I believe each of you have exhibited the qualities that make you a leader.”
The oath of office for each respective sworn rank was administered by Anita Earls, associate justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court. Following the oath, Lt. Colonel Alan Melvin recognized civilian members receiving a promotion. Concluding the service, a benediction was offered by SHP Chaplain Phillip Bland.
