
At the Association of the United States Army’s Summit and Exposition in Fayetteville, RET. COL. WILLIE WRIGHT was honored with the Old North State Award on behalf of Governor Roy Cooper.
The award recognizes “dedication and service beyond expectation and excellence to the Great State of North Carolina.” People eligible for the award have served the state of North Carolina for 20 years or more.
Wright is a familiar face in the Fayetteville area. He is the past executive vice president and lifelong member of the Braxton Bragg chapter of AUSA.
President of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Braxton Bragg Chapter Ariel Aponte presented the honor to Wright. “I am truly honored to award Col (Ret.) Willie Wright from Fayetteville the Old North State Award on behalf of Governor Roy Cooper … Mr. Wright is a remarkable soldier for life in and outside the uniform,” Aponte said in a LinkedIn post prior to presenting the award.
AFCEA- NC Fort Bragg Chapter’s annual summit brings together leaders from industry, academic and research institutions, innovation hubs, Veteran organizations and elite Army and Special Operations commands. Graphic provided by Phil Williams
Fayetteville brokers and agents are entering 2026 with cautious optimism about what lies ahead.
Located at 225 Hay St. in downtown Fayetteville, Cameo Art House Theatre has two auditoriums and screens films ranging from classics to new releases. The theater also prioritizes spotlighting local and up-and-coming filmmakers. Photo by James Throsse