The Onslow Observer: Supporting Veterans, Law Enforcement, & More...

Dear Neighbor,

I hope you and your family are doing well. It’s been a meaningful month here in Onslow County and in Raleigh, and I’m grateful for every opportunity to serve our community. From supporting our military families to strengthening public safety and honoring those who’ve given so much, the work continues every day. As always, if you ever need assistance navigating state government or have concerns you’d like to share, my office is here to help. It remains an honor to represent you in the North Carolina Senate.

At your service,

Michael Lazzara

North Carolina Senator

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MARINE CORPS!

Earlier this month, we celebrated 250 years of the United States Marine Corps. 250 years of honor, courage, and unwavering commitment to defending our great nation.

To all who have served and continue to serve, thank you for standing firm in defense of freedom. Semper Fidelis.

HONORING THE LIFE OF STAFF SGT DYLAN T. RASMUSSEN

The tragic and senseless killing of U.S. Marine Dylan Rasmussen in a road rage incident is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly life can be stolen through reckless violence.

As a fellow Marine, this loss hits deep. Dylan wore the uniform with pride, served his country with honor, and loved his family with everything he had.

We grieve not just the death of a service member, but of a man who lived with purpose. This should have never happened. There is no place for this kind of violence in our communities.

To Dylan’s wife, children, and loved ones — my heart is with you.

Semper Fidelis.

MILITARY ENROLLMENT GROWTH IN UNC SYSTEM

North Carolina is stepping up for our military families.

This fall, the UNC System enrolled more than 23,000 military-affiliated students — a 6% increase from last year. That includes veterans, active-duty service members, and their families.

With Camp Lejeune and so many service members calling Onslow County home, this growth matters. I’m proud of the work we've done in the NC General Assembly to expand in-state tuition and recognize military training for college credit.

I’m committed to continue building pathways to success for those who have served our nation.

DEFENDING PUBLIC SAFETY IN OUR COMMUNITIES

I’m honored to once again be recognized as a Defender of Public Safety by the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association.

This award reflects our shared commitment to standing with law enforcement, cracking down on crime, and making sure our officers can keep serving without sacrificing the benefits they’ve earned.

We’ll keep working to ensure law and order in Onslow County and communities across North Carolina.

IRYNA'S LAW MADE OFFICIAL

Last month, Iryna’s Law officially became the law of the land in North Carolina.

Ten days after it passed the NC General Assembly with bipartisan support, the Governor signed it into law — closing dangerous loopholes and standing up for victims of violent crime.

This is a win for public safety, a win for accountability, and a win for every North Carolinian who deserves to feel safe in their community.

CHAMPIONING PRO-JOBS POLICIES

Supporting our small business community isn’t just good policy — it’s common sense. I’m proud to receive a 100% objective score from the NC Free Enterprise Foundation for consistently voting to protect free enterprise and strengthen our economy. North Carolina thrives when government gets out of the way and lets innovation lead.

CONGRATULATIONS, CAPTAIN THOMAS MARSHBURN!

Congratulations to Captain Thomas Marshburn of the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office on being honored as a 2025 “40 Under 40” awardee by the International Association of Chiefs of Police!

From reducing impaired‑driving fatalities to modernizing law enforcement policy and earning over $1.8 million in grants for critical technologies and equipment, Capt. Marshburn’s dedication reflects leadership rooted in service and integrity.

Thank you, Capt. Marshburn, for your hard work and selfless service.

IN MEMORY OF KEN HAGAN

I was saddened to learn of the passing of my friend and former colleague, Ken Hagan. He was a man whose life truly reflected service, leadership, and love for his family, and the people of Jacksonville.

I had the privilege of serving as a City Council member beginning in 2005 while Ken was our City Manager. His passion for children, recreation, and community was a labor of love. The parks, programs, and opportunities he created continue to bring joy to families across our city.

Ken’s legacy will live on through every child who plays on our fields, every family who gathers in our parks, and every life he inspired through his decades of service.

Rest in peace, my friend. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you gave to Jacksonville, Onslow County, and to our nation.