Woolwich Selectmen David King Woolwich Selectman David King is honored with a presentation of a plaque thanking him for his service to the town. The award was presented by Selectman Rita Sturtevant during the town's selectmen's meeting Monday evening. (Photo Charlotte Boynton)

Woolwich Selectman David King was taken by surprise Monday evening, when as chairman he asked for public comment.

Selectman Rita Sturtevant left her seat, saying, "I wish to make a public comment," then she asked King to come to the front of the room.

"On behalf of the town I want to present you this plaque as a token of our appreciation." The plaque said, "The Board of Selectmen, on behalf of the citizens of the town of Woolwich, wish to thank you for your years of service as a member of the select board and as its chairman."

"You have steadfastly displayed leadership and loyalty in your conduct as a board member and chairman. You have represented the population with fairness, non-partisanship and dedication to duty."

Members of the public present at the meeting gave King a standing ovation. It was the second standing ovation he has received this month, the first being at the town's annual tree lighting service.

King had been elected three times to the board of selectman, and has served as chairman since Crispin Connery gave up his seat to become a Sagadahoc County Commissioner. King sought re-election this past November and was defeated by Lloyd Coombs.

At the end of the selectmen's meeting, King said, "I am going to do something tonight that I have never done before. I move to adjourn."

At the next selectmen's meeting, January 14, a new chairman will be elected, and Coombs will take his seat on the board.