Greg Murphy: “On Sunday, February 13, a catastrophic tragedy took place in a close-knit eastern North Carolina community. A small…”

“On Sunday, February 13, a catastrophic tragedy took place in a close-knit eastern North Carolina community. A small plane carrying eight passengers, including four teenagers, crashed into the Atlantic Ocean about 4 miles east of the Drum Inlet. Tragically, all eight North Carolinians perished in the crash. There are no words to describe the pain and devastation that our community has felt in the weeks following this tragic accident. Yet, through this heartbreak we have all been moved by the outpouring of love and support from all of those across North Carolina and our great Nation. We cannot thank our first responders, U.S. Coast Guard, the Carteret County Sheriff's Office, State agencies, and community members enough for coming together in support of the families impacted by this heartbreaking tragedy. Members of our community have participated in many loving tributes to honor those we lost. I am grateful to the volunteers, ministers, students, teachers, parents, grandparents, friends, and classmates who are helping to provide aid and support, as well as comfort to our Down East residents. Their selflessness and commitment to others is to be commended, and I honor their service.…”