On 2026-05-20, Representative Gregory F. Murphy (R-NC-3) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING SHERIFF ASA BUCK" in the House.
RECOGNIZING SHERIFF ASA BUCK Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 86 (Wednesday, May 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 86 (Wednesday, May 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E471] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING SHERIFF ASA BUCK ______ HON. GREGORY F. MURPHY of north carolina in the house of representatives Wednesday, May 20, 2026 Mr. MURPHY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor someone whom I deeply admire and respect and am lucky enough to call friend, Sheriff Asa Buck, who will retire on June 1, 2026, after more than 25 years of devoted service to Carteret County. Asa was born and raised in Carteret County, graduating from East Carteret High School before earning his bachelor's in criminal justice from East Carolina University. After completing his BLET program, Asa joined the Sheriff's Office in 1999 and because of his dedication and exemplary work ethic, quickly worked his way up the ranks. In 2006, after campaigning and knocking on over 5000 doors to introduce himself to the people, he was elected to his first term as Sheriff. The citizens of Carteret County have rewarded him for his hard work, re- electing him multiple times as he has diligently served the community for over 19 years. In his role as Sheriff, Asa has made the safety of the people of Carteret County his top priority. He focused much of his time on the opioid and drug crisis that has ravaged so many North Carolina communities. He played a pivotal role in launching Carteret's ``Pills can kill,'' a drug take back program, and M.E.D.S., a medication education program on safe storage and disposal. These anti-addiction and collection programs served as a model for other counties across the state. Additionally, under his leadership, Carteret County now tops the state in arresting and prosecuting drug dealers for death by distribution. His tough stance on illegal drugs has saved countless lives. Asa's commitment to his community has been rewarded with more responsibilities. He was elected to serve as the President and Chairman of the North Carolina Sheriffs' Association, selected for the Governor's Task Force for Mental Health and Substance Use, and was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine for his contributions to his community. The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is the highest civilian honor in the state of North Carolina. As Asa looks to future opportunities to serve, I know that Asa's friendly demeanor and servant leadership will be greatly missed by the county and the communities he served. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the amazing work Sheriff Asa Buck has done and wishing him the best of luck in his retirement. ____________________