For nearly four decades, Sgt. Major Greg Dirks has served his country with the same intentional calm, leadership presence, and purpose that he brings every single day into the halls of L.C. Kerr Elementary School. After 38 years in the United States Army, Dirks now stands at the closing chapter of his military career, but his imprint throughout Sampson County’s schools continues to grow.

Dirks’ surprise recognition inside Clinton City Schools last week brought all of his worlds into one place at once. Leaders from Clinton City Schools, command leaders from his military units, friends he has served beside for decades, his church community, and his own family filled the room to honor him. Dirks described it as surreal. He said all four of his families came together at one time.

“You got yo

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