Maryville Community Remembers Officer Kenny Moats Eight Years After His Passing
In Maryville, Tennessee, the community came together this weekend to remember fallen police officer Kenny Moats, who died in the line of duty eight years ago. The annual memorial ride took place on August 25, marking the tragic day in 2016 when Moats lost his life serving the public.
A Heartfelt Gathering
Families and friends gathered at Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson, where hundreds of participants showed their respect and support. The atmosphere was filled with both sorrow and celebration as they honored not only Moats but also other first responders who risk their lives for community safety.
Leading the procession were Moats’ family members alongside the families of fellow fallen officers, Tucker Blakely from Knox County and Greg McCowan from Blount County. This procession featured numerous vehicles, highlighting the strong bonds within the law enforcement community and the residents of East Tennessee.
Community Support Shines
Shaina Kirkland, a former coworker of Moats at the Maryville Police Department, expressed her appreciation for the ongoing community support, saying, “Our law enforcement officers deal with so much, and whatever we can do to support them as a community, we need to continue to do that.”
The event volunteer, Nathan Way, emphasized the robust support from the community, stating, “Community support has just been outrageous. Every year that we’ve done it really shows why this East Tennessee community supports law enforcement.”
Celebrating a Good Man
For those who knew Moats, including Maryville resident Michael Kennedy, the day held deep personal significance. Kennedy recalled, “I knew Kenny growing up. He was a good guy. Just it’s just kind of a good get-together for the community.”
Participants acknowledged that while the occasion is meant to celebrate Moats’ life, it can also be an emotional time. Kennedy remarked, “It’s a very emotional thing, especially for the families,” adding that the get-together was meaningful for friends and families to remember Moats collectively.
A Commitment to Honor
Kirkland shared insights on the emotional aspect of the memorial, stating, “It’s for Kenny with all his friends and family to be together.” She added, “His family means the world to me, and whatever we can do to continue to support him, that’s what we’re going to do.”
Such events, as Way noted, serve to show the fallen officers’ families that the community continues to embrace and support them. “So it’s really just a way for the community to put their arms around the families and show them that we still remember them and we support them,” he explained.
Looking Back on Heroes
Eight years have passed since Officer Kenny Moats was tragically killed while on duty, yet his legacy continues to inspire the people of Maryville. The annual event has become a cherished tradition, demonstrating that even in times of loss, the community remains united, honoring those who serve and protect.
The remembrance ride not only highlights the memories of fallen officers but also serves as a reminder to cherish the lives of all first responders who sacrifice their safety for the welfare of the community they serve.
