To the Editor,

It would be ridiculous for me to argue that I know what it takes to be a sheriff. I don’t know the ins and outs of the position’s daily political duties, the letters of the law, or the daunting tasks of interagency cohesion.
I could, however, argue the fact that I know a thing or two about civil service and the commitment required to give more than yourself every single day. I’ve dedicated my entire life to service. I spent my 18th birthday at Marine Corps Recruit Training at Parris Island, South Carolina, and I spent my most recent birthday (31 for the 10th time) riding the backstep of Ladder Company 103, in East New York, Brooklyn.
I’ve met thousands of dedicated individuals over the last 40-plus years. Whether they were Marines, or firefighters, or Daryl, the boy with special needs that helps me bag my groceries at my local market in Queens, I have the unique ability of recognizing when someone gives 110 percent in everything that they do.
Mark Turner is one of those special people. I’ve known Mark for 25 years and I’d be hard pressed to name another individual that I feel is more dedicated and better suited for ANY position. If he were to tell me he was running for the presidency of the United States, he would have my absolute support, because I would have total confidence that he did his due diligence and was only doing it with the certainty that he was the most qualified person for the task. He has dedicated his entire life to his profession and he has bestowed his craft to the community that he has called home his whole life.
I do not need to remind you that he is the most qualified for the appointment of Sheriff of Southampton County and the City of Franklin — his resume speaks for itself. But the amazing thing about Mark is that he is constantly evolving. He remains focused on education and training and is continually up to date, so as times change, Mark changes with it.
I could ramble on forever of why I endorse Mark Turner for Sheriff, but I can easily sum him up with something I learned from the Marine Corps — the 14 Leadership Traits, better known to Jarheads as “JJ DID TIE BUCKLE:” Justice, Judgment, Dependability, Initiative, Decisiveness, Tact, Integrity, Endurance, Bearing, Unselfishness, Courage, Knowledge, Loyalty, Enthusiasm.
Many possess some, some possess many, even fewer possess all.
MARK BRANDON TURNER POSSESSES EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM!
Good luck, Mark, on the test of your campaign.
There is no better person on this planet to fulfill this role.

Robert Puckett
Ladder Company 103
Fire Department, City of New York