Armstrong recognized with Long Leaf Pine

Published 12:10 am Thursday, October 10, 2024

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On Tuesday, Clemmons local Ed Armstrong joined a prestigious club as a recipient of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award.

Armstrong was recommended by Clemmons Fire Chief Gary Styers for his “remarkable 53-year volunteer tenure” in Clemmons.

“Mr. Armstrong has exemplified the highest standards of commitment and excellence in his roles within the department,” Styers said in his recommendation letter. “From his early days as a certified firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) to his current positions as deputy fire chief and chairman of the board of directors, his leadership and tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on our community.”

Styers said that Armstrong’s presence is felt in virtually every emergency response, where his “readiness to spring into action and dedication to his fellow citizens is nothing short of exemplary.”

Styers went on to say that beyond Armstrong’s invaluable contributions during crises, his ‘compassionate demeanor fosters open communication with those impacted by tragic events and provides solace and support when needed.”

Armstrong’s impact on the community was not limited to his role on the front lines of emergency response.

“As a dedicated board member, he has worked diligently behind the scenes, ensuring the smooth operation and continued success of our department,” Styers said. “His selfless service and humble commitment to the betterment of our community embody the sprint of The Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award.”

For over 45 years, Armstrong has been a chief officer with the department, and was the first deputy chief of the department. For almost as much time, he served as a board member for the Corporation of The Clemmons Fire Department and currently serves as the board chairperson.

Armstrong spent three decades working in schools around the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System. He began as a teacher at Hill Middle School, later ascending the administrative ladder through the halls of Mount Tabor High School and Hanes Middle School before becoming a principal at Anderson Middle School. He later returned to where it all began, serving as principal at Hill Middle School and ultimately Cook Middle School.

Armstrong retired from the school system in 1996 and joined the IT department for a number of years as a part-time employee until final retirement. Throughout his tenure, his area of expertise was working with underperforming schools to elevate performance.

He has been recognized as the Jaycees’ Person of the Year and served Clemmons First Baptist Church as a teacher, committee member and deacon.