The Associated Press
KINGS MOUNTAIN, N.C. (AP) - A third officer from the Kings Mountain Police Department is headed for duty in Iraq and the city is honoring him with a luncheon before he leaves.
Don Martin Jr., a reserve officer who also works with Freightliner trucking company, will serve an 18-month tour of duty.
“For me, it’s just something I have to do and come home safe,” Martin said.
Martin has been a part-time officer since 1993. His first partner was Melvin Proctor, who is now the town’s police chief.
Martin was also activated by the National Guard for a year beginning in 2002, when he was sent to Maryland.
Proctor said he has held luncheons for all of his officers called to duty in Iraq.
“I think they deserve the recognition,” Proctor said.