by Emily Luxen
LEBANON, Tenn. - Law enforcement officials from across Wilson County came together to watch a popular documentary featuring some of their comrades.
"Heroes Behind the Badge" depicts the dangers officers face daily.
It features stories about officers who have died in the line of duty, as well as those who have survived close calls. In Wilson County, it is a story that hits home after two local officials were killed while on the job 10 years ago.
"We want the community to remember the sacrifices that law enforcement officers make on a daily basis," said Cpl. David Stolinsky with the Mt. Juliet Police Department, who helped organize the event.
On July 9, 2003, Mount Juliet Police Sgt. Jerry Mundy and Wilson County Sheriff Deputy John Musice were attempting to end a high speed chase safely.
They put spike strips on the road, but the driver of a car, Fallon Tallent, swerved to miss the spike and hit and killed the two men instantly. Tallent was sentenced to life in prison in 2005
It was a tragedy people in the community remember like it was yesterday.
"Both of them were great men, great law enforcement officers, and great family people," said Wilson County Sheriff Robert Bryan. "It was a sad day for Wilson County."
Sheriff Bryan and others in attendance hope the documentary is a reminder that officers like Sgt. Mundy and Deputy Musice put their lives on the line every day.
"It's a matter of keeping our friends' memories alive," said Cpl. Stolinsky. "We don't want people to forget the good they did in this community."
In addition to the screening of the documentary, there was a silent auction, with proceeds going to National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund and Middle and East TN Concerns of Police Survivors.
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