Murfreesboro, TN - On Thursday, May 15, 2025, the nation paused to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Police Officers Memorial Day, designated by President John F. Kennedy in 1962 through Public Law 87-726, pays tribute to federal, state, and municipal peace officers who have been killed or disabled while serving their communities. A special ceremony was held at the Murfreesboro Police headquarters at 1004 N. Highland Ave.

In Rutherford County, the community solemnly reminders the courage and dedication of local law enforcement. Agencies including the Murfreesboro Police Department, Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office, Smyrna Police Department, LaVergne Police Department, MTSU Public Safety, Tennessee Highway Patrol, U.S. Marshal Service, Veterans Administration Hospital Police Department, and Eagleville Police Department honored fallen officers who made the supreme sacrifice here in Rutherford County, TN.

President George W. Bush reinforced the importance of this tradition in a 2002 proclamation, emphasizing that Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week recognize the heroism of those who protect and serve.

Among the honored fallen officers is Constable Abner Dement, who lost his life in 1878 after being shot while attempting to apprehend a suspected horse thief. Since then, Rutherford County has mourned the loss of nine more officers, each leaving behind a legacy of service and sacrifice:

• Constable Abner Dement (1878)
• Trooper William H. James (1942)
• MPD Officer Herbert McClanahan (1946)
• U.S. Deputy Marshal Sam Vaughn (1953)
• Trooper Lewis R. Hendon (1957)
• MPD Officer Joseph “Butch” Tomlinson (1999)
• MPD Officer Kay Rogers (2005)
• MPD Capt. Byron Motley (2006)
• MPD Officer Matt Lovejoy (2007)
• THP Trooper Andy Wall (2011)
• RCSO Det. Jacob Beu (2023)

As we remember these fallen heroes, we extend our gratitude to all law enforcement officers who continue to serve with unwavering dedication. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.