BRISTOL, Va. (WCYB) — On Tuesday, the Southwest Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy, local law enforcement agencies, and members of the community, gathered to honor Smyth County Deputy Sheriff Hunter Reedy in a solemn dedication ceremony.

Deputy Reedy, was killed in the line of duty on August 9, 2024, and was remembered for his unwavering commitment, courage, and service to Smyth County and Southwest Virginia.The event featured remarks from training academy executive director Tim Tester, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith, Pastor Shawn Womack, Sheriff Chip Shuler of Smyth County Sheriff’s Office, and Mark Hutchinson, CEO of Blue Line Solutions.

"We sleep silently in our beds at night, because rough men stand ready, and if need be, do violence on those who would do us harm," said Miyares, quotingGeorge Orwell. "That was Hunter. He was a watcher on the wall standing ready to protect his fellow man."

The ceremony, attended by family, friends, fellow officers, and community leaders, included heartfelt tributes and the unveiling of a memorial wall in honor of Deputy Reedy.

"There is an 85th name that is tragically added to the memorial behind me," said Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R-Virginia). "But it's an 85th name that will inspire others to their better selves."

The ceremony was made possible through funding provided by the Southwest Academy Training Foundation, which enabled a fitting commemoration for Deputy Reedy, reflecting the Foundation’s mission to support regional public safety agencies and honor those who serve in Southwest Virginia.

"It's to help people understand the sacrifice these men and women that put on their badge everyday and go into work knowing they may not come home, but yet they still go in and do it to serve their communities because they truly care about people," said training academy director, Tim Tester.

“Today, we honor Deputy Hunter Reedy not only for how he served but for the kindness, integrity, and dedication that he brought to this profession each day,” said Tester.

Musical tributes were performed by Renee Woods, whose renditions of the National Anthem and “Amazing Grace” added a meaningful resonance to the event. The ceremony concluded with a special dedication of a monument, “Carved in Stone,” honoring Deputy Reedy’s life and the lasting impact he made on his community.

"It matters not the style of the badge he wore, only that he served with pride and honorably, all that matters is he was one of us...serving whenever needed," said Smyth County Sheriff, Chip Shuler.

In support of the gathering, Bojangles of Bristol, VA generously donated lunch for all attendees.

For those wishing to contribute to the memorial wall honoring all Southwest Virginia officers killed in the line of duty, donations can be made to the Southwest Academy Training Foundation. These donations will help ensure the ongoing maintenance of this tribute, a lasting reminder that those who gave the ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten.