Veteran law enforcement officer Michael D. Grissom received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Wednesday during a ceremony at the Vance County Courthouse.
N.C. Rep. Frank Sossamon presented the award to Grissom with family and friends looking on in recognition of his nearly 30-year career in law enforcement that Sossamon stated is “marked by extraordinary dedication, leadership, and a profound commitment to public safety and community well-being.”
In1973, Grissom was a patrolman with the Henderson Police Department. He quickly distinguished himself through his strong connection to the community, his unwavering ethical standards and sense of duty. He rose through the ranks, first as detective and then as detective sergeant.
Grissom was promoted to lieutenant in 1988 and he served in that role until 1991. As a lieutenant, he played a pivotal role in enhancing the department’s strategic planning, resource management and interdepartmental collaboration.
Then, he became an agent with the City-County Bureau of Identification in Raleigh, bringing with him a wealth of experience and commitment to excellence. By 1994, he was promoted to field supervisor, a position he held until his retirement in June 2002.
Throughout his career, Grissom has embodied the principles of justice, fairness and service, and has left an indelible impact on the organizations he served and the communities he protected. His unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of others has made him a model of public service and a deserving recipient of this distinguished honor.
“Mike Grissom represents the best of North Carolina,” Sossamon stated. “His lifelong commitment to protecting and serving his community has inspired many and ensured a lasting legacy of integrity and leadership.”
