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HJR 1645

Memorials, Recognition - Fallen law enforcement officers of Hawkins County -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Gary Hicks

HJR 1645 memorializes Hawkins County fallen officers and designates National Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor their sacrifice and support families.

Transmitted to Governor for his action.
#memorials #recognition
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Bill Summary · HJR 1645

Bill Summary: House Joint Resolution 1645 (HJR 1645) – Tennessee 114th General Assembly

Overview

  • Title: Memorials, Recognition - Fallen law enforcement officers of Hawkins County
  • Jurisdiction: Tennessee
  • Session: 114
  • Sponsor: Rep. Hicks (Co-sponsor: Gary Hicks)
  • Type: House Joint Resolution (memorial/recognition resolution)
  • Status: Passed both House and Senate and concurred (as of 4/23/2026)

Purpose and Intent

HJR 1645 memorializes and honors the fallen law enforcement officers from Hawkins County during National Police Week and on Peace Officers Memorial Day. The resolution publicly recognizes the courage, dedication, and sacrifices of Hawkins County law enforcement personnel who have died in the line of duty or as a result of their service. It also expresses gratitude and support for current law enforcement personnel and for the families of fallen officers.

Key Provisions and Provisions Highlights

  • National Police Week Recognition: The resolution designates May 11–16, 2026, as National Police Week to honor Hawkins County and nationwide fallen officers.
  • Peace Officers Memorial Day: May 15, 2026, is recognized as Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor all fallen officers and acknowledge the sacrifices of their families.
  • Named Fallen Officers (Hawkins County):
    • Farris Ward (shot and killed, December 12, 1930)
    • William Frye (shot and killed, December 30, 1931)
    • Drew Harrell (died in a automobile accident, June 15, 1937)
    • John Wesley Wright (accidentally shot by another officer, August 16, 1988)
    • Deputy Gerald “Bubba” Gibson (killed in the line of duty, July 13, 2000)
  • Public Acknowledgment and Gratitude: The resolution commends the ongoing service of law enforcement personnel, supports families of fallen officers, and pays tribute to the valor and enduring legacy of peace officers.
  • Omission Clause for Copy: Standard language allowing the final copy of the resolution to be prepared with certain formatting aspects omitted upon request.

Who Is Affected

  • Primary Beneficiaries: Hawkins County law enforcement officers (current and future) and their families.
  • Communities: Hawkins County residents who recognize and memorialize fallen officers.
  • Statewide Context: Aligns Hawkins County’s remembrance with national observances (National Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day).

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Observation Window for 2026: National Police Week (May 11–16, 2026) and Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15, 2026).
  • Legislative Journey:
    • Introduced and filed (April 22, 2026)
    • Passed the House with a high level of bipartisan support (Ayes 93, Nays 0)
    • Referred to Senate (April 22, 2026) and placed on Senate Consent Calendar (April 23, 2026)
    • Concurred by Senate and transmitted back to the House (April 23, 2026)
  • Effective Date: The resolution takes effect upon adoption by both chambers (as is typical for memorial resolutions).

Impact and Significance

  • Serves as a formal, official acknowledgment of the sacrifices of Hawkins County officers.
  • Encourages community support for law enforcement and appreciation for officers' families.
  • Reinforces the connection between local memorials and national days of remembrance for fallen officers.

If you’d like, I can tailor this summary for a policy brief, a local government briefing, or a press release, and add direct quotes or dates of observance for 2026.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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