By Sheriff Robert L. Holland
Macon County, North Carolina

During the past few days I have found myself often thinking about the tragedy surrounding the death of one of our own, NC Trooper David Shawn Blanton Jr., and imagining the events that occurred during that dark night in nearby Haywood County. Still, even today, I find myself deeply saddened at the loss of not only a brother law enforcement officer but also of a young man in his prime. While pondering the chain of events in my mind, each time I conclude by thanking God that such a tragic event did not come any closer to home. It is shameful that such a young trooper who had a brand new baby boy has had his entire life and career stolen from him. How sad it is to know that the actions of another has robbed him of the opportunity to see his son grow and the chance to share each and every moment through the years with his young wife. Instead, a little boy will grow up and learn how his father was a brave officer and how he paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting and serving his community. While attending his funeral with a number of my deputies, I listened to the minister describe Trooper Blanton “as a hero not because he died in the line of duty, but instead, because of how Trooper Blanton lived his life.” What a wonderful tribute for anyone to be remembered by. I heard his friends describe him as the type of person that, not only his son could look up to, but all of us. Trooper J.P Henderson, told those attending his partner’s funeral that his friend always had a smile with a “giggle” that was indescribable, a man who never met a stranger, and a man that was always willing to help others. Trooper Blanton will also be remembered as the first member of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians to serve with the North Carolina Highway Patrol.