(Editor’s note: Col. V. Stuart Cook, sheriff of Hanover County, submitted the following letter, titled “Set the Example,” as students start the 2010-2011 school term.)

Dear parents and students:

During the past 20 years of service as sheriff of Hanover County, I have watched many of you grow up in Hanover County, attend and graduate from the very best school system, and, now, our children and grandchildren are an integral part of these very same schools. 

As I will retire on Oct. 1, 2010, I want to assure you that all of our students’ best interests and safety will remain paramount to the men and women of the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office. 

My successor, Lt. Col. David R. Hines, will serve as your sheriff and I am confident that he will contin-ue to carry on the mission of the Sheriff’s Office and provide the best law en-forcement services necessary to do so. 

As students in our high schools, I know that many of you have the capability to be our future leaders, not only in our county, but throughout the country.

I challenge you to set the best example for your parents, your teachers and classmates, your friends, your brothers and sisters, and especially to yourself. Yes, yourself!

It is up to you and no one else to be that next leader. 

As you know, some of your peers may participate in underage drinking, or the use of illegal drugs or misuse of prescription drugs; sometimes with catastrophic results.

Many believe it “won’t happen to me” but it can and does happen.

You can instantly change lives and futures by making a poor choice.

I also ask that you drive responsibly.

I have confidence in you that you will remember to buckle up; drive the speed limit; pay attention to the road and not your personal electronic devices, or your passenger.

Be familiar with the laws.

Set the example to all who trust you with their safety when you are behind the wheel. 

I ask that you set the example to those who want to be your friends and remember that a friend will not put you into situations that may be harmful to your well-being.

Remember the tools that you have been taught to deal with negative peer pressure. 

The Sheriff’s Office promises to work hard to keep your school drug and alcohol free so that you can reach your greatest potential in a safe learning environment.

I hope you have an outstanding year and continue to strive to be the best. 

Most of all, we ask you to set the example by making wise choices and to look out for your friends.

It has been my pleasure to serve all of you and be a part of our great Hanover community.