Remembering the Fallen: FC Holds Annual Police and Firefighter Memorial
- Terri Carter
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
With solemn reverence and unwavering gratitude, the Franklin County community gathered last Thursday at Winchester City Hall to pay tribute to their local fallen heroes. At the annual Police and Firefighters Memorial Service, the memory of those who bravely served and sacrificed was honored—not just in words, but in the deep appreciation etched in the hearts of all in attendance.
Opening remarks for the event were delivered by Winchester Mayor Sean Crabtree.
“Today we gather in this sacred place with solemn hearts and, at the same time, with hearts of deep gratitude to honor the courageous men and women of our police and fire departments who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.”, stated the mayor. “Their unwavering commitment to public safety and their selfless service exemplifies the highest ideals of heroism and devotion.”
Crabtree acknowledged that attendance to the memorial would ensure that the memory and the impact of the fallen would live on and took time to recognize the families and loved ones that were left behind, stating that their strength and resilience were just as much a part of their story and their sacrifice.
Following the opening remarks, Jessica May delivered a stunning rendition of the National Anthem and Rock Creek Elementary’s Kindergarten Class led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance with their teacher, Randi Elsen.
An opening prayer was led by Winchester Cumberland Presbyterian Church Pastor Michael Clark. He went to prayer in thankfulness and gratitude, as he remembered those whose watch is now over. The pastor lifted up those who needed comfort and asked that they find rest and peace.
Introducing the guest speaker was Winchester Police Chief Richie Lewis. Lewis gave a brief bio of the speaker, adding that he was a personal friend and a friend to the Winchester Police Department.
Guest Speaker William “Chip” Kain is the Director of the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy and Executive Secretary of the Tennessee Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission.
Director Kain emphasized the importance of reflection, remembrance, and renewed commitment to service. The ceremony was not just an opportunity to honor fallen officers but a solemn duty to ensure their sacrifices were never forgotten. He highlighted the weight of grief carried by the families, acknowledging that their loss is profound and enduring, but reassuring them that they are never alone in their sorrow.
Kain stated that the event underscored the immense responsibility that current officers bear—to live and serve in a way that honors those who gave their lives in the line of duty. Their legacy is not just preserved in memorials but in the daily actions and integrity of those who continue to uphold the principles of law enforcement.
The Director expressed that, while the memorial is a place of mourning, it also stands as a testament to extraordinary individuals who placed others' lives above their own, sometimes without knowing the people they protected. He emphasized that true remembrance comes not only through reflection but through action—by rededicating oneself to a life of service, supporting those who continue to wear the uniform, and standing beside the families who have lost loved ones. The event was meant not as a conclusion but as a call to continue honoring the fallen through meaningful purpose and unwavering commitment.
Following Kain’s speech, Winchester Fire Chief Gary Greeson announced the Roll Call of the fallen heroes, stating each one by name:
Chief John E. Penny, Decherd Police Department, Served 1942-1944
Sgt. Daniel Smith, Winchester Police Department, Served 1974-1996
Inv. Michael K. Buckner, Decherd Police Department, Served 1998-2005
Inv. Charles Jerry Crabtree, Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, Served 1957-2010
Lt. Wilbur Pinnell, Winchester Fire Department, Served 1974-1995
Firefighter/EMT Tracy D. Floyd, Winchester Fire Department, Served 1993-1997
After Roll Call, the Tennessee Highway Patrol solemnly placed a wreath on the memorial wall, a powerful tribute to those who served. Todd Boswell’s moving performance of Amazing Grace on the bagpipes filled the air with emotion, followed by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office honoring the fallen with a dignified 21 Gun Salute. Clinton Vincent then closed the ceremony with a poignant rendition of Taps, marking a moment of reflection and remembrance.
Closing remarks were delivered by Franklin County Mayor, Chris Guess. Guess thanked everyone in attendance, stating that attendance reflected interest and remembrance. Coming from a law enforcement background himself, the mayor spoke of why the heroes chose to do what they do.
“Sometimes people wonder why these men and women do the job they do.”, stated Guess. “If you saw those little one’s come up here and lead us in the pledge, that’s why they do it. They do it for the families. They do it for the values. They do it for our way of life. That’s why they do it.”
The mayor expressed how important it was to have days of remembrance and events to honor those who have fallen.
“If we don’t have these kinds of events and memorials, people start to forget.”, stated the mayor. “And we most certainly will not and do not want to do that.”
He showed heartfelt gratitude to the families of the fallen and the heroes, recognizing that their journey requires its own sacrifice. He acknowledged the strength it takes to endure the uncertainty, to stand by their loved ones, and to support the profound passion, calling, and duty they have chosen to uphold.
The memorial came to a close with a prayer led by Pastor Chris Smith from Valley Home Methodist Church in Pelham. He prayed a hedge of protection over those who serve others, and gave thanks for the blessings, guidance, and direction, asking that all things be done for God’s glory.
The event served as a reflection of bravery, courage, and the ultimate sacrifice. It was an evening of honoring and remembering those heroes who never came home from answering the call, and an offering of steadfast support for the family members and loved ones who were left behind. The community stood together, not only to mourn these fallen heroes but to honor their legacy—a legacy built on bravery, compassion, and an unyielding sense of duty. Their legacy of courage and dedication lives on, forever remembered and cherished by the community they protected so fiercely.
