Editorial: Mike Sprayberry's best at preparing us for the worst
Monday, April 19, 2021 -- While we may hope for infrequent Mike Sprayberry appearances, we've been fortunate for his leadership, preparedness and ability to rapidly mobilize diverse resources as state Emergency Management Director for the last 13 years.
Posted — UpdatedWhile we may hope for infrequent Sprayberry appearances, we’ve been fortunate for Sprayberry’s leadership, preparedness and ability to rapidly mobilize diverse resources as state Emergency Management Director for the last 13 years.
When he must appear, he has been a reassuring presence. It is no overstatement to credit his work for preventing the loss of tens of thousands of lives – people and their pets! He has enabled the rescue of hundreds who suddenly found themselves in deadly trouble and no way out. His efforts helped provide shelter to those driven from their homes.
His agency’s programs and planning have provided citizens with sound advice and direction to prepare for and cope with emergencies. In turn, that has enabled people and communities hit with these tragedies to marshal resources, assess damages and move on more rapidly to rebuild and recover.
As state government has become more stratified along partisan lines, Sprayberry’s steadfast nonpartisanship enhanced his credibility and stature. A health crisis or a natural disaster doesn’t come with a political affiliation.
He speaks and acts with very necessary no-nonsense directness (reflective to his long service in the N.C. National Guard and as a Marine before that) needed to get people to act quickly in emergency situations.
But he also brings an equally strong sense of humanity and shared compassion, having witnessed first-hand the turmoil and suffering disaster brings to so many.
“Don’t forget to look out for your family, friends and neighbors. And call your loved ones daily. I guarantee they’ll appreciate it. With your help, we’ll get through this together as one team, one mission and one family.”
Precise advice from an emergency response planner. A compassionate admonition from someone who cares for his state, his neighbors and friends.
Thanks, Mike, for your service.
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