Vance County Commissioner Col. Archie Taylor has received The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest civilian honor that a North Carolina governor can award to an individual for contributions to the state and to his or her local community.
Rep. Frank Sossamon delivered remarks – and a framed certificate – to Taylor during a recent commissioners meeting.
Sossamon cited Taylor’s 28 years of military service and said that career “speaks volumes about his commitment to duty and leadership.”
That service, along with his service since 2012 on the local board of commissioners and other civic and service organizations, sets Taylor apart. Taylor lost a close primary race in March and will leave the board in December.
“His longstanding involvement in economic development initiatives…his strategic vision and proactive approach have played a pivotal role in promoting Vance County, both locally and beyond,” Sossamon said.
Over the years, Taylor has been an ardent supporter of education, the arts, the Boy Scouts. Maria Parham Health, Rotary, his church, just to list a few.
He was named Vance County Citizen of the Year in 2021 and also received the George R. Watkins Citizen of the Year from the Occoneechee Council of the Boy Scouts.
In brief remarks after the presentation, Taylor expressed his surprise and thanks for the honor.
He said he has a plaque on his wall with a quote attributed to Robert F. Kennedy which states “’One man can make a difference and every man should try.’ That’s all I’ve tried to do – make a difference everywhere I’ve been,” he said.
He invited others to join him. “Our county gets better as more and more people get involved.”
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