BLOUNT COUNTY, Tenn. — The national anthem began a ceremony honoring Greg McCowan, a fallen Blount County Sheriff's Office deputy who was fatally shot while responding to a traffic stop. On Monday, local leaders gathered to dedicate a bridge in Blount County to the fallen deputy.
Cayley McCowan, the deputy's daughter, said her dad always dreamed of becoming a deputy.
"He was the kind of man to give a helping hand to anybody who needed it. He would have anybody's back without hesitation and was a true hero at heart," she said at the ceremony.
Hundreds gathered at the Big Spring Bridge to honor him. Blount County Sheriff James Berrong said the agency has been keeping McCowan's family in their prayers. Berrong also said he hopes this is the last time they have to go through something like this.
"It's so humbling and to see the support we've had through the community, and now to have this bridge that when people cross it, they'll know the sacrifice he made for his community, state and nation," Berrong said. "Our prayers, no other officer harmed or killed. I don't think I can do this again. I don't want to do this again."
This bridge now bears the deputy's name. State leaders like Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn also attended the ceremony.
Blackburn's opening remarks included how this bridge is also a reminder of the support from the community at a difficult time like this.
"To honor law enforcement to recognize the service of the sheriff's department here in Blount County, and to honor the life and the sacrifice of Greg McCowan," Blackburn said.
Now two signs, one on each side of the road read "Deputy Greg McCowan Memorial Bridge."
The man who shot and killed him is facing 21 counts, including premeditated murder. Cayley said her dad's death leaves a huge void behind.
"Not only was he a wonderful dad, he was a great papa of my daughter, a loving son, a caring fiance, and truly a great friend to have," Cayley said.