Wall of Honor

​Thomas Elliott served in the NC National Guard from 1949-1952. He considered it his patriotic duty to serve his country as the cold war in Europe was heating up. His numerous letters of commendation are a testament to his dedication to the National Guard. He was a “Citizen Soldier”, faithfully attending the monthly drills and the annual grueling six weeks of the annual mandatory summer camp in such exotic places as Ft. Bragg and scenic Ft. Benning Georgia. According to his family, he joined to be a “radio man” and that is exactly what his job was in the Whiteville unit of the NC National Guard. Thomas Elliott in private life worked at Riegel Paper Company, Federal Paper and later International Paper for 47 years. He was a certified Waste Water Treatment Plant operator, served on the Cape Fear Council of Government, including as Chairman in 1977-1978. One of his greatest contributions, other than serving his country, was as Mayor of Lake Waccamaw, a position he held from December 1973 until December 1987, probably the longest tenure of any Mayor before or since. During his administration, the Town added the Depot Museum and Library. In addition, he worked with officials from the State to establish the Lake Waccamaw State Park.