Governor Stein Honors Veterans at NCCU
On November 11, 2026, Governor Josh Stein participated in a Veterans Day ceremony at North Carolina Central University, where he recognized the service of several individuals by inducting them into The Order of the Long Leaf Pine. This prestigious honor was awarded to five veterans, acknowledging their contributions and sacrifices.
During the event, Governor Stein expressed gratitude for the dedication of North Carolina’s veterans, stating, “North Carolina’s veterans have courageously served our country, and we owe them a debt of gratitude.” He emphasized the importance of honoring their service and committed to supporting veterans and military families in the state.
Honorees Recognized for Their Service
The inductees included notable figures such as Dr. Tyrone Baines, a civil rights activist and former chief operating officer of North Carolina Central University; Pastor Kenneth Dula, a Vietnam War veteran and Purple Heart recipient; and Dr. Stephanie Freeman, a former director at the university and spouse of a U.S. Air Force member. Additionally, retired Gunnery Sergeants Henry Grange and Robert L. Thomas, both Montford Point Marines and Congressional Gold Medal recipients, were also honored.
Governor Stein further honored Oliver Diggs, a Montford Point Marine and World War II veteran from Lenoir County, by recognizing him as a Long Leaf Pine recipient.
Commitment to Veterans and Military Families
North Carolina boasts a veteran population exceeding 600,000 and ranks fourth in the nation for military presence, hosting the largest military base in the country. In light of this, the Stein administration is dedicated to enhancing the lives of military families and veterans.
This week marks the one-year anniversary of the AskMeNC initiative, launched by Governor Stein and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. The program aims to improve the quality of life for veterans, service members, and their families by providing access to services such as healthcare, housing assistance, employment, and education.
Recent Initiatives and Upcoming Events
Governor Stein has actively participated in several initiatives aimed at supporting the military community. Last month, he attended the Unlock the Veteran & MilSpouse Advantage Roadshow in Wilmington, which focused on connecting employers with veterans to strengthen the state’s workforce. Earlier this year, he signed an executive order requiring cabinet agencies to appoint Military Affairs Coordinators to streamline support for servicemembers.
In 2025, he enacted four bills designed to ease the transition for military families, including provisions for transferring professional licenses and facilitating school enrollment for military children. North Carolina was also designated as a Do Your Part State, a collaborative effort to assist military families.
Upcoming Recognition Ceremony
Next week, Governor Stein is set to present the North Carolina Award, the state’s highest civilian honor, to six distinguished individuals, including retired Lt. General Kevin Vereen. Proceeds from the ceremony, taking place at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, will benefit two charities focused on supporting veterans and military families: Blue Star Families and Camp Corral, both dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by military families.
Source: Office of the Governor of North Carolina
