Paul Buchanan has resided in Onslow County since 1969 after receiving an honorable discharge from the United States Marine Corps, to include service in Vietnam. Commissioner Buchanan began public service with the Onslow County Sheriff's Department in 1970. In 1974, he joined the Jacksonville Police Department, during which time he served as the supervisor in charge of the Special Operations Division for vice and narcotics investigations and Evidence Division. Commissioner Buchanan was promoted to Commander in Charge of the SWAT Team and department Training Division for Jacksonville Police.
Commissioner Buchanan received 2 Purple Hearts: one when he was wounded in Vietnam and one when he was wounded performing his duties as an Onslow County Deputy Sheriff.
Commissioner Buchanan serves as the Director of Law Enforcement Training at Coastal Carolina Community College.
A North Carolina Wesleyan College graduate with a B.S. in Criminal Justice, Commissioner Buchanan holds numerous specialized instructional certifications, professional credentials and memberships.
Commissioner Buchanan has three grown daughters and eight grandchildren. He and his wife, June, are active members of the Onslow County community.
His areas of special interest include economic development and enrichment programs for the youth of Onslow County.