Former Mayor, Town Administrator Receives Long Leaf Pine Award

ARCHER LODGE, N.C. – Former Archer Lodge Mayor and Town Administrator Mike Gordon has been awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine in recognition of decades of military, civic and local government service.

The award was presented during the Aug. 3 meeting of the Archer Lodge Town Council by state Rep. Donna White on behalf of Gov. Josh Stein.

The Town of Archer Lodge nominated Gordon for the honor.

Gordon’s public service began with 24 years in the North Carolina Army Active Guard-Reserve from 1980 until 2004. He retired as a senior non-commissioned officer.

His service in Archer Lodge has included 19 years with the Archer Lodge Volunteer Fire Department, including 10 years as president, as well as a term as president of the Johnston County Firemen’s Association.

He also spent more than 25 years serving the Archer Lodge Community Center, including 14 years as its president, and played a role in the establishment of the Archer Lodge Water District.

Gordon has also been involved in veterans’ causes and is a member of White Oak Baptist Church.

His service to town government began in 2009, when he became mayor of Archer Lodge. He remained in that position through 2018.

In 2019, Gordon became Archer Lodge’s first Town Administrator, serving through 2023. He later returned as Interim Town Administrator from September 2025 until February 2026.

White said the award recognized Gordon’s service to the state and his community.

“In grateful recognition of your exemplary service to the State of North Carolina and your many contributions to your community and fellow citizens,” White said while presenting the honor.

The Order of the Long Leaf Pine was created in 1963 and recognizes significant service to North Carolina and local communities.

Gordon’s service was also recognized in the Congressional Record. Kim Barnes, representing U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis’ office, presented Gordon with a copy of the submission.

“When I found out that this was in the works, I knew we had to take this one step further and cement your body of work into the Congressional Record,” Barnes said.

Gordon appeared surprised by the recognition.

“Wow! This is a little overwhelming,” he said.

He recalled advice from his father that helped shape his approach to public service.

“We’re all here on this earth for a short time, and you better make the best of it while you’re here,” Gordon said. “Archer Lodge is truly in my heart.”

He said his father also encouraged him to “leave it a little bit better than you found it.”

“That’s all I’ve ever tried to do is to make it a little better than I found it,” Gordon said.

Mayor Matt Mulhollem said the recognition was fitting.

“I couldn’t imagine a more fitting person to be honored with that award,” Mulhollem said. “We appreciate all you’ve done.”