A Salute to Service and Perseverance: Honoring Lester Lipford This Veterans Day

Written and inspired by Quarla Blackwell

On this Veterans Day, we honor those who have served our country in uniform — and those who continue to serve their communities with courage and heart. Today, we pay tribute to Lester Lipford, a newly elected member of the Kinston City Council and a proud veteran of the United States Armed Forces.

Lester Lipford’s path to public office has been marked by determination and resilience. He ran for Kinston City Council in 2021 and 2023, coming up short each time. But he never gave up. He stayed in the fight, kept showing up, and remained committed to the people of Kinston. In November 2025, his perseverance paid off — he won his seat on the City Council, a victory that reflects both his character and his connection to the community.

Lipford’s campaign emphasized public services, housing, and economic development, and he has long been known for his grassroots approach to leadership. As a nonpartisan candidate, he built support across the community by focusing on what matters most: improving quality of life, strengthening neighborhoods, and ensuring that every voice is heard.

Beyond politics, Lester Lipford’s military service stands as a pillar of his identity. The discipline, sacrifice, and integrity he learned in uniform continue to guide his work in public life. His commitment to Kinston is rooted in service — both to his country and to his city

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So today, we say: Congratulations, Councilman-elect Lester Lipford. Thank you for your service to this country, your dedication to this city, and your unwavering belief in the power of community. Your journey inspires us all, and your victory reminds us that true leadership is earned through patience, purpose, and heart.

Happy Veterans Day, Lester Lipford. May this new chapter be filled with unity, progress, and the kind of leadership that uplifts every corner of our community.