Superintendent commissioned to be Kentucky Colonel

Rodney Herring approached the podium before the Gulf County Schools School Board with a mission and a frame covered by a cloth.

He rested the frame against the back of the podium, then stood to face the front of the room.

“About 20 years ago, I was surprised by retired Army Maj. Cleo Hogan… While he was here, he took the time to come down to the VFW and to award me with a commission as a Kentucky Colonel,” Herring said. “I had no clue what it was.”

Herring went on to say that he had learned that the honor is intended to recognize an individual’s outstanding service and to list the names of just a few of the honor’s recipients – George H.W. Bush, Winston Churchill, Walt Disney, Betty White, among others.

“Today, I am here to perform the solemn duty of delivering a commission,” he said.

Then, Herring removed the plaque’s cover and presented it to Gulf District Schools’ Superintendent Jim Norton.

“When I made this nomination to the governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, I dwelled on two points,” Herring said. “One was from Hurricane Michael. Although he didn’t go it alone, the superintendent stepped forward, facilitated and saw to it that this County received supplies and really came to the forefront of providing for the systems of Gulf County. Also, I have been moved by his continued diligence and supporting veterans activities.”

The commission of Kentucky Colonel is the highest title of honor bestowed by the Governor of Kentucky. It is recognition of an individual’s noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service to our community, state and nation.

It is a lifelong appointment.

Upon receiving the commission, Norton said that he was honored that he had been nominated.

“I am so honored by the people who even thought to recommend me for something like this,” Norton said. “Thank you.”