Press Release--Lumbee Warrior Receives the Highest Award for the State of N.C. at Veterans Ball

For Immediate Release

Lumbee Warrior Receives the Highest Award for the State of N.C. at Veterans Ball

Pembroke, NC (June 26, 2023) - David G. Locklear, Master Chief, United States Navy (Retired) was presented the Order of the Long Leaf Pine at the Lumbee Warriors Assocation Veterans Military Ball on Saturday. Locklear is a member of the Lumbee Warriors Association. The award was presented by Rev. Gary Deese, County commissioner John Earl Cummings, Larry Townsend, Gregory A. Richardson, Executive Director of the NC Commission of Indian Affairs and the Lumbee Warriors. Locklear served in the United States Navy from 1965 to 1994. He grew up in Pembroke. After graduating from high school, Locklear joined the United States Navy. He had a distinguished Navy career advancing to Master Chief Petty Officer. Locklear served in various sea and shore commands. During those years, his shore tours included assignments in the Philippines, Naples Italy, NATO Command in Norfolk, Virginia (2 tours), Special Ops assignment at Fort Bragg, NC, ending with his final military assignment at Navy Management Systems Support Office in Chesapeake, Virginia. Locklear is an enrolled citizen of the Lumbee Tribe.

Since 1963, North Carolina’s governors have reserved their highest honor, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine award, for persons who have made significant contributions to the state and their communities through their exemplary service and exceptional accomplishments. Persons named to the Order become North Carolina “Ambassadors” with their names and award dates recorded on a Roster maintained by the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Society.

Photo caption - David G. Locklear, Master Chief, United States Navy (Retired) was presented the Order of the Long Leaf Pine at the Lumbee Warriors Association Veterans Military Ball on Saturday.