A chief deputy representing the Sullivan County Sheriff's Office outlined plans for an officer and first-responder memorial event scheduled for May 16 at the Benaview Convention Center.

The chief said the ceremony will honor 22 fallen heroes and that roughly 300 attendees are expected so far, including mayors, city managers, county judges, media tables and organizations from outside the region. A keynote speaker is planned (Knox County Mayor Glenn Jacobs was named), and invited speakers include state and federal officials, veterans groups and local elected leaders. The chief framed the event as a regional remembrance and a way to support surviving families.

Representatives from the Kingsport Chamber and other local partners said the event will also raise funds and that organizers intend to distribute proceeds to first-responder organizations and families after the dinner. The chamber said it will help with fundraising and reach out to business and civic partners.

Ending: Organizers asked county leadership to support the event and invited commissioners, municipal leaders and the public to attend on May 16.