Beaufort County Community College recently celebrated nine graduates from its A-4 Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) Academy, marking another step toward strengthening local public safety. The ceremony, held on July 22, honored Charles Elks, Conner Flowers, Tyler Harrell, Hensley Jordon, Charles Kukulka, Benjamin Marsh Jr., Eric Minshew, Rylie Norman and Skylar Pounds as they prepare to launch their careers in law enforcement.
District attorney Thomas Anglim addressed the graduates during the ceremony, reminding them of the responsibility they now carry as public servants.
“What I want you to carry forward is that you’re part of something bigger than yourself,” said Anglim. “Each day that you suit up, you’re standing in defense of the system of justice. Your honesty, your integrity, and your willingness to put others first—those are what define your reputation. No man or woman is greater than the system, but together, we are greater than the sum of our parts. And at the end of every shift, I hope you go home safely, knowing you did right by the people you serve.”
Hensley Jordon, president of the graduating class, delivered closing remarks and a light-hearted roast of her fellow cadets. She also received the award for Highest GPA, while Charles Kukulka was honored for achieving the Best POPAT (Police Officer Physical Abilities Test) score.
The ceremony concluded with pinning events for two new officers. Skylar Pounds was pinned by the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, and Eric Minshew was pinned by the Martin County Sheriff’s Office.
Beaufort CCC’s BLET program equips students with essential skills to begin careers as law enforcement officers with municipal, county, or state agencies. Students study a wide range of topics, including criminal and traffic law, emergency response, ethics, and courtroom procedures. Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to take certification exams through the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission and/or the North Carolina Sheriffs’ Education and Training Standards Commission.
The next BLET Academy begins September 8. Students can be sponsored by a law enforcement agency or have their tuition covered through the Beaufort Promise Scholarship.
A required registration session will take place on:
Thursday, August 14, 6–7 p.m.
Law Enforcement Building (10B), Room 101
Learn more and get started at our law enforcement web page.