An enduring truth of the law enforcement profession is its inherent risk. Any law enforcement officer may, at some point, be called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice. Fortunately, an equally enduring fact is the family nature of a law enforcement agency.

The Blount County Sheriff’s Office in Tennessee serves an area near Knoxville. In February of this year, one of its deputies made the aforementioned sacrifice. Deputy Greg McCowan and his partner pulled over a vehicle in Maryville for erratic driving. The driver of the vehicle shot both deputies, killing McCowan and wounding his partner. The suspect was apprehended several days later.

The true depth of Deputy McCowan’s sacrifice is only realized when one accounts for the fact that he was a mere 43 years old and left behind numerous family members. The damage done by his killer is especially illustrated by a milestone in the family’s life. Deputy McCowan’s son, Cayden, graduated on May 10.

While nothing can replace a fallen parent, Cayden wasn’t alone at his graduation. In a post to its department Facebook page, the Blount County Sheriff’s Office shared a photo of Cayden posing with his freshly minted diploma and eight of his father’s fellow deputies. In honor of his father’s memory, Cayden wore his badge over his heart.

The post also included well wishes from the sheriff of Blount County, stating that “Sheriff James Berrong and all of us at BCSO are proud of you and your accomplishments, Cayden, and we look forward to watching you achieve your dreams!”

It’s safe to say that the readers of APB feel the same way.

The effect of Deputy McCowan’s death has clearly been felt throughout the area. Just a few days after Cayden’s graduation, a ceremony was held to name a local bridge after Deputy McCowan. According to WATE 6 News, McCowan’s daughter, Cayley, spoke at this dedication event, which was attended by family, friends, Blount County Sheriff’s deputies, Sheriff Berrong and Senator Marsha Blackburn. “I want to say thank you to the Blount County community for the unbelievable amount of support,” Cayley said. “Thank you to the Blount County deputies and Sheriff Berrong for giving us so much comfort, love and support, and having our backs always. Thank you.”