WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) — District Attorney Jon David has received one of North Carolina’s highest honors as he prepares to retire after nearly three decades as a prosecutor.
Gov. Josh Stein awarded David the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, recognizing his years of service to the state.
The award was presented Thursday evening during a retirement celebration aboard the Battleship North Carolina in Wilmington, where approximately 500 guests gathered to honor David.
David serves as district attorney for North Carolina’s 15th Prosecutorial District, which includes Bladen, Brunswick and Columbus counties. He has held the position for 16 years and spent approximately 30 years as a prosecutor.
Four justice system leaders nominated David for the honor: Senior Resident Superior Court Judges Jason Disbrow and C. Ashley Gore, Public Defender Jacob Ward and First Assistant District Attorney Jenna Earley. All four helped present the award during Thursday’s ceremony.
“I am humbled to receive this honor, and I accept it on behalf of the dedicated public servants I have been privileged to lead,” David said. “The leaders who nominated me are our partners every day, and the working relationship among our courts, our defense bar, and our office has never been stronger.”
David also thanked Stein for the recognition and reflected on their time working together when Stein served as North Carolina’s attorney general.
The ceremony featured remarks from judges, law enforcement leaders, state officials and David’s identical twin brother, retired District Attorney Ben David, who previously served New Hanover and Pender counties.
The Order of the Long Leaf Pine recognizes exceptional service to North Carolina. Previous recipients include Michael Jordan, Dale Earnhardt and former President Gerald Ford.
David is scheduled to retire at the end of 2026.
