Page 18 - Tree Line - North Carolina Forestry Association - Third Quarter 2020

thinking skills through a series of hands- on lessons and activities. In total, Gregg has taught over 30,000 students across the state of North Carolina. Because of his extensive knowledge in the field of forestry and his experience working in the wood products industry, Gregg was able to teach every topic in the camp curriculum, including tree identification, wildlife, tree and land measurement, and forest products history.
“It is important to pass along our interest and knowledge of trees and
forest to future generations,” Gregg said. “It’s been very satisfying to see students interested in forestry. These students are the future decision-makers of our society, and it is important to help them see the positives of forests, forest stewardship and the forest industry as a whole.”
In 2014, Gregg received the Distinguished Service Award for his dedication to forestry. Then-NCFA President Ray Allen stated during the award ceremony: “Stewart has been a constant over the years in our education program for school children and teachers. We appreciate his willingness to donate his time and talents to teach the next generation about how important forests
are to our environment and our economy.” Then-Education Manager Jennifer
Grantham said, “Stewart is without question our most dedicated instructor. His dedication to our education efforts
is terrific. I can always count on him to help out, regardless of the location, and that is special. Volunteers like Stewart are essential to our camps.”
Returning to Korea
This past year, Gregg returned to Korea under the Revisit Korea Program. The goal, according to South Korea’s Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, is “to express gratitude to Korean War veterans from 21 UN allied nations and build their pride by allowing them to witness how Korea enjoys peace and prosperity thanks to their noble sacrifices and dedication.”
The government covers a portion of expenses and veterans are able to visit war memorials, battle sites and Seoul
National Cemetery as well as attend receptions and banquets. An average of 600 veterans are invited to return to the country annually.
Gregg and his son Eric returned
in late October of 2019. Upon arrival, Gregg received the Ambassador for Peace Medal. This commemorative medal honors the American servicemen and women who served in the Korean War.
It is an expression of appreciation from the Korean government and presented
to those who return through the Revisit Program. “I was surprised,” Gregg said. “The whole trip was pretty phenomenal.”
Now in his late 80s, Gregg returned to his hometown of Lenoir and purchased his childhood home. He
is still consulting for Gregg Forestry
and walks nine to 10 miles each week, cruising timber. When asked if he plans to retire as his 89th birthday approaches, he simply laughed.
Clockwise from above: Stewart Gregg receiving the NCFA Distinguished Service Award in 2014 from President Ray Allen. Stewart Gregg visits the Seoul National Cemetery on his return visit to Korea. Ambassador for Peace Medal presented to Stewart Gregg. Banquet honoring Korean War veterans.
16 ncforestry.org / THIRD QUARTER 2020
COURTESY OF GREGG FAMILY
COURTESY OF ERIC GREGG