Remarks for Secretary Tippett
Captain Jerry Best Bridge Dedication
Wednesday, March 29, 2006 at 1 p.m.
Goldsboro
Thank you, Captain Winstead, for that introduction.
Mrs. Best, other members of the Best family and friends, thank you for inviting me here today.
Unfortunately Tom Betts, the North Carolina Board of Transportation member for this region, could not be with us today.
He has asked me to share his regrets, and he wanted you to know that he is truly grateful for the work that Jerry Best did for the citizens of Goldsboro and Wayne County.
Throughout our state, highways and bridges are dedicated in remembrance of law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting our neighbors and friends.
Sheriff C.A. Winders and the deputies in the Wayne County Sheriff's Office show that dedication to duty and service day in and day out, and we thank you.
Law enforcement officers put their life on the line to make sure our state highway system is safe for motorists.
Whether pursuing criminals, enforcing traffic laws, responding to accidents or in this case, removing a dangerous obstruction from the roadway, the N.C. Department of Transportation relies upon these brave men and women to uphold the safety of our roadways.
This willingness to go above and beyond to ensure the well being of others truly defined Captain Best's life.
His commitment to service was evident in everything he did.
Winston Churchill once said, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give."
It is clear that law enforcement was more than just Captain Best's job-it was a way for him to give back to the members of this community, serving them and protecting them from harm.
A graduate of Goldsboro High School, Best began his employment with the Wayne County Sheriff's Department in 1977.
A month later, he completed his studies at Wilson Technical Community College, earning a degree in police science.
Over the years, Best rose through the ranks of the sheriff's office, from a courtroom bailiff to the county's alcoholic beverage control officer.
In each role, he demonstrated loyalty and a commitment to fairly administering justice for the citizens of Wayne County.
He was promoted to lieutenant and named head of the narcotics division in 1987, where he worked to rid the county's streets of dangerous drugs.
In 1994, after becoming a detective sergeant in the investigations division, he returned to the classroom to earn an advanced law enforcement certificate.
However, Best found the most job satisfaction in his role as chief of detectives.
He held the rank of captain from 1999 until his untimely death in 2002.
As the chief detective, he led a team of 12 investigators in solving cases throughout the county.
It was also in this role that he gained nationwide attention for his successful efforts to clear an innocent man of a wrongful conviction.
His work to right this wrong is testimony to his strong sense of ethics and high degree of integrity.
I understand that particular case is now taught in law and justice classes around the country, allowing his legacy of service to live on in future generations.
Best also helped shape tomorrow's law enforcement officers as a basic law enforcement training instructor at Wayne Community College.
Those who knew Captain Best describe him as not only a dedicated professional and caring administrator, but also a "straight-forward" officer and a true southern gentleman.
Whether as a devoted husband, an officer, an instructor, a coworker or a friend, Best certainly touched the lives of everyone in this community.
And I know that he is greatly missed.
I am confident that everyone in this room today could share a story of how he served and cared for them.
Like Best, U.S. 117 is at the heart of Wayne County and a part of the daily lives of its citizens.
Today, it is my true privilege to dedicate the U.S. 117 Bypass bridge over U.S. 70 here in Goldsboro in honor of Captain Jerry Best.
By naming the bridge over U.S. 70, we have yet another opportunity to honor his legacy for future generations.
From today on, those who travel this highway will be reminded of the life of a true Tarheel hero.
At this time, I would like for Donna Best to come forward.
Donna, on behalf of the N.C. Department of Transportation, I have the honor of presenting you with this small replica sign in honor of your husband's sacrifice.
Donna, I understand you would like to say a few words on behalf of the family.