Gordon Wilder awarded with highest state honor

Tyler Davis, Henderson (N.C.) Daily Dispatch
·1 min read

Jun. 8—HENDERSON — On Monday, State Rep. Frank Sossamon presented former Vance County Commissioner Gordon Wilder with The Order of the Long Leaf Pine award, the highest award bestowed upon North Carolinians.

"Gordon, because of your outstanding service to Henderson, Vance County and the state of North Carolina," said Sossamon, "because of your integrity, strong leadership traits and genuine compassion for your fellow man, it is my distinct honor and pleasure to present to you, on behalf of the governor of North Carolina, to most prestigious award offered by the governor..."

The award is given only to those who have a proven record of "extraordinary service to the state," Sossamon described.

"I don't make good speeches," Wilder began upon receiving the honor, "but I am truly humbled. Knowing the people who have received this award, the caliber of people who have received this award — I am truly humbled to be [a recipient.]

"... I'm going to tell you, honestly, I have coveted this award, but I didn't know how to go about it, what you had to do, and to be honest with you, I still don't know. But seriously, whoever in this room had anything to do with it, I'm just so grateful and so thankful."

Wilder has spent upwards of thirty years serving the community in various capacities, from teaching at Vance County Schools to director of their transportation department, from one fire department to another.

Surrounded by family members, he accepted the honor. Board Chair Yolanda Feimster offered congratulations on behalf of the commissioners.