JACKSON – Eighty-six year old Dr. James E. Brown DVM of Rich Square, the oldest full-time veterinarian in North Carolina, was honored last week for his dedicated service to the community.

Brown was twice recognized, first by Northampton County Health Director Sue Gay as being the recipient of the Carl Durham Award and second by Northampton County Chairwoman Virginia Spruill on behalf of the Commissioners for his outstanding service to the community.

Presently a resident of Rich Square, Brown has been a practicing veterinarian for the past 61 years and has served on the Northampton County Board of Health as the Veterinarian Medicine representative for nearly 15 years.

Having provided input and guidance to the county on significant public health issues such as tobacco, intensive livestock ordinances and the home health advisory board of which he is a member, Northampton County Home Health has twice received commendations and been accredited four times while under his direction.

&uot;Dr. Brown is a perfect example of ‘service above self,’ said Gay. &uot;Throughout his 86 years of life, he has been of service to the citizens of Northampton County. He served in the armed forces during World War II, he is a member of several civic organizations and is an active church member and still manages to maintain regular veterinary office hours 6-7 days per week.&uot;

Brown continues to remain active in the community and currently serves as Vice Chair to the Board of Health as well as the Home Health Advisory Board.

&uot;He is to be commended for his desire to continue to ‘give back’ to the county in his senior years, and we are especially thankful for his loyal service on the Board of Health,&uot; Gay said.

Spruill echoed her remarks. &uot;With his chosen profession as a Doctor of Veterinarian Medicine, Dr. Brown’s dedicated service in Public Health is legendary throughout the state and speaks volumes to his respect and concern for all living creatures and it is a privilege to present him with this recognition.&uot;