Emerald Isle commissioners Tuesday night honored longtime fire department Cap. Bruce Norman, who has retired after 31 years of service.
The ceremony, at the start of the commission’s meeting in the boardroom off Highway 58 and virtually on GoToWebinar, included a presentation to Mr. Norman of the state’s highest civilian honor, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine.
“We want to thank you for your time and hard work,” Mayor Eddie Barber said to Mr. Norman. “I’m crying here. It’s my pleasure to present this to you on behalf of Gov. Roy Cooper.”
The board also adopted a resolution to honor the former captain. It stated Mr. Norman, in his position, “rendered dedicated service to the Town of Emerald Isle and has made significant accomplishments in the areas of beach programs and community engagement” and “has given so much of himself through the years of serving Emerald Isle, but little thought is given to the time swiftly passing by.”