Sunday, March 29, 2009, was a day I never imagined would happen in my quiet, peaceful hometown of Carthage. A horrific event took place at Pinelake Nursing Center. I cannot express the amount of sadness and grief we all share for the families of the victims.

Words cannot express the pride I feel for the heroism displayed by Carthage Police Officer Justin Garner. Carthage Police Chief Chris McKenzie handled the very difficult situation in a professional manner that represents the quality of employees in the town of Carthage.

Thanks to everyone, including the Moore County Sheriff's Department, N.C. Highway Patrol, elected officials along with their fire and police departments from neighboring towns, Sandhills Mental Health, local clergy, Congressman Howard Coble, Rep. Jamie Boles and Sen. Harris Blake who came forward and offered their help and prayers.

My appreciation and feelings are reflected in McKenzie's statement, "Carthage is a faith-based community, and faith will get us through."

Mayor Ronnie Fields

Carthage