SPANISH FORT, Ala.—Bobby J. Fortenberry attended his first informal work session April 18, but he sat silently while his fellow council members discussed the upcoming agenda.

“I want him to get a taste,” Mayor Joe Bonner said, noting the appointment would not be official until Municipal Judge James V. Roberts administered the oath of office during the regular meeting one hour later.

Fortenberry was elected unanimously April 11 to the vacant District 3 City Council seat, held since the city’s 1993 incorporation by councilman Joe Thomas who died Feb. 20.

“Once again, we appreciate you accepting (the position), and we hope it will be as meaningful for you as it has been for us and Mr. Joe,” Bonner told Fortenberry.

“I’m honored to be here,” Fortenberry said.

Fortenberry, who defeated Robert Eugene “Bob” Pannone and Wendy Pickering for the post, retired as an officer in the U.S. Navy following a 30-year career. He also taught in Escambia County Schools for 15 years.

His appointed term expires in November 2012.