The Onslow Observer: Health Care, Military Leadership, & More...

Dear Neighbor,

August has given us plenty of reminders of what makes Onslow County special — service, sacrifice, and neighbors looking out for one another.

This past month, we welcomed new leadership at Camp Lejeune, celebrated an important investment that will bring more health care options to Sneads Ferry, and had the privilege of honoring Major James Capers Jr., a Jacksonville Marine whose courage and service represent the very best of our community and our country.

We also said goodbye to a Jacksonville legend and a friend, Officer James “XY” Brown. His remarkable lifetime of service left an imprint on generations of families, and his loss is deeply felt throughout our community.

There is a lot to be proud of here at home, and there are always challenges that require our attention. I remain committed to serving as your voice for Onslow County in Raleigh and making sure the people, priorities, and values of our community are represented every day.

Thank you for allowing me the privilege of representing you.

At your service,

Michael Lazzara

North Carolina Senator

NEW HEALTH CENTER IN SNEADS FERRY

Great news for Sneads Ferry! Golden LEAF has awarded $450,000 to help equip Goshen Medical Center’s new health center — expanding access to care for at least 1,400 patients in rural Onslow County and creating more than 20 full-time jobs.

CHANGE OF COMMAND AT CAMP LEJEUNE

More than 25 years after beginning his Marine Corps career at Camp Lejeune, Brig. Gen. Andre Ingram has returned to lead Marine Corps Installations East and the base where his service began.

Onslow County is proud to welcome Brig. Gen. Ingram home. As a fellow Marine, I look forward to working with him to strengthen the enduring partnership between Camp Lejeune and our surrounding communities.

Thank you as well to Col. Gregory Pace for providing steady leadership during this transition and for continuing to serve as deputy commander.

Semper Fi. 🇺🇸

HONORING MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT, MAJ. JAMES CAPERS JR. OF JACKSONVILLE, NC

I recently had the distinct honor of recognizing one of our own, Major James “Jim” Capers Jr., on the floor of the North Carolina Senate. A resident of Jacksonville and a proud Marine, Maj. Capers recently received our nation’s highest military honor, the Medal of Honor, for his extraordinary heroism and selfless courage during the Vietnam War.

His actions under unimaginable circumstances exemplify the values of honor, courage, and commitment that define the United States Marine Corps. For decades, his bravery inspired those who knew his story, and now our nation has rightfully recognized his sacrifice and leadership.

Onslow County is proud to call Maj. Capers one of our own. His legacy serves as a reminder that true heroes walk among us, and his example will continue to inspire future generations of Americans to serve with integrity, humility, and unwavering devotion to their country.

Congratulations, Maj. Capers, and thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your lifelong commitment to our nation. Semper Fidelis.

IN MEMORY OF OFFICER JAMES "XY" BROWN

This month, Jacksonville lost a true legend, and we lost a friend — Officer James “XY” Brown.

I had the privilege of knowing XY for many years and witnessed firsthand his incredible dedication to our community. His was truly a life of service, first to our country as a World War II Army veteran, and then for an amazing 68 years with the Jacksonville Police Department.

Generations of Jacksonville families knew XY, especially the countless children he watched over and safely crossed at Northwoods Elementary. He was more than a public servant; he became part of the fabric and history of our community.

I was especially proud to see XY receive the Order of the Long Leaf Pine earlier this year, an honor so well deserved.

My prayers are with his family, his Jacksonville Police Department family, and everyone who loved him.

Rest easy, my friend. Godspeed, XY. Jacksonville will never forget you.