Bristol, Virginia Remembers Fallen Deputy Hunter Reedy
In a somber yet heartfelt ceremony held on a crisp autumn morning on October 29, 2024, the community of Bristol, Virginia gathered to honor Deputy Hunter Reedy of the Smyth County Sheriff’s Office. This emotional event took place at the Southwest Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy, where Deputy Reedy’s name was added to the memorial wall, a tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of public safety.
A Community Comes Together
The air was thick with emotion as the ceremony commenced, attended by an array of local leaders, including Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin and U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith. Smyth County Sheriff Chip Shuler and other community members were also present, reminding everyone of the shared commitment to support and celebrate those who dedicate their lives to protecting us.
Tim Tester, the executive director of the training academy, reflected on the deep bond shared between the officers. He shared, “Hunter came through this academy. So as a staff here, we assisted in his initial training. He spent 18 weeks with us so we knew him personally.” This personal connection is a cornerstone of the law enforcement community in Southwest Virginia, making the loss all the more poignant.
Understanding the Sacrifice
At the heart of the ceremony was a message of **sacrifice and bravery**. Tester passionately articulated the risks that officers face every day, conveying, “It is to help people understand the sacrifice that these men and women put on their badge each day and go into work, knowing that they may not come home, but yet they still go in and do it to serve their communities because they truly care about people.”
Hunter Reedy was tragically killed in the line of duty on August 9, 2024. His name is now etched on the memorial wall as a solemn reminder of that day. He is the second name to grace the wall, a stark testament to the dangers faced by those who uphold law and order in our communities. “Hope we never have to do another one,” Tester added emotionally. “That’s a horrible tragedy for everyone involved, but we’re going to make sure [at] this academy that we will honor their memory and always remember.”
A Lasting Legacy
As attendees wiped away tears and shared stories of Reedy’s commitment, they also recognized the lasting impact he made, not just within the law enforcement community but in the hearts of those he served. The Memorial Wall, which stands as a significant symbol of the sacrifices made by officers, is a reminder for all of us to appreciate their dedication. Deputy Reedy’s name is now located directly beneath Officer Michael Chandler from Big Stone Gap, who also lost his life in the line of duty back in November 2021.
This event not only commemorated a fallen hero but also united the community in honoring the bravery of all law enforcement officers. As attendees reflected on the significance of the day, it was clear that while Reedy may no longer be physically present, his spirit and legacy of service would live on in each of them.
Moving Forward Together
In Bristol and across Southwest Virginia, the bond among officers and their communities continues to strengthen. The ceremony reaffirmed a collective promise to support and uplift one another, honoring the profound sacrifices made by those who wear the badge.
As Bristol remembers Deputy Hunter Reedy, let us carry forward his legacy, staying united in gratitude and respect for all the brave souls who protect our neighborhoods, often at great personal risk.
