It’s a process — first a campaign, then an election; a new office won, followed by the day a new leader assumes his or her place in the public arena. It’s change — a never-ending cycle of renewal and regeneration.

Monday saw the installation of several elected officials, all of which were sworn to fulfill their duties to the best of their abilities. While the focus now is on the new, all should take a moment to acknowledge those who have served and are now moving on.

County commissioners Stan Deatherage and Al Klemm — Deatherage served as a commissioner for nearly two decades; Klemm, for eight years. Whether one agrees with their politics or not, both men gave many, many hours, their time and energy, trying to help Beaufort County become a better place. For that, they should be commended.

There are others who did not hold an elected office, but nevertheless played vital roles in county government. Since the 1960s, Billy Mayo served as Beaufort County attorney. For the past 30 years, County Clerk Sharon “JoJo” Singleton was the go-to person in county administration. Both retired in November and between the two of them, know more about the county and its government than likely all of the rest of Beaufort County combined. For their many years helping to steer the local government, they should be commended.

Sheriff Alan Jordan was Beaufort County’s sheriff for 16 years. He was sometimes a controversial figure, but Jordan’s dedication and leadership set a new, higher standard for the sheriff’s office. For that, he should be commended, as should those who served in other leadership roles under Jordan: former Chief Deputy Kit Campbell and Major Kenneth Watson.

Each and every one of these people brought their knowledge and the best of their abilities to their jobs, serving the people of Beaufort County with little to no fanfare, often braving public criticism in the bad times, and, just as often, braving general apathy during the good times. Each, in his or her own way, was called to serve. Each answered that call.

Thank you all for your service to Beaufort County.