Community rallies behind sheriff for ‘In God We Trust’ decals on vehicles
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HENDERSON COUNTY, Tenn. — A West Tennessee community has received national attention after adding and refusing to remove religious decals from their sheriff’s office patrol cars. Hundreds of people stood in front of the Henderson County Courthouse Saturday afternoon to stand up for one of their own, Sheriff Brian Duke. “They just want to stand up for something,” Duke said. “I think they’re tired of the political correctness, and in Henderson County, God means something here.” Almost two weeks ago, Duke received a letter from the Freedom From Religion Foundation saying the phrase “In God We Trust” has no place on government vehicles. “People are offended by the Freedom From Religion Foundation’s request to remove those decals,” Duke said. “They don’t live here, they’re not a part of our community, they don’t pay taxes here and they don’t have a say here.” Jeffrey Howard said he was inspired to unite the community with the sheriff. “I just didn’t think it was right and just wanted him to keep standing up for what’s right and not stand behind, but stand beside him,” Howard said. “I was sitting at home one night and God spoke to me and said to stand up for what’s right, and I’m trying to do the right thing.” As for the sheriff, he says that letter has no place in Henderson County. “Today is just a day to publicly come out and say ‘hey, we’re not going to be bullied,'” Duke said. “We’re not pushing nothing on anybody or anyone.” County leaders said they have not heard any further response from the group who sent the letter. The organizers said they plan to make the rally an annual event showing their support for their faith and community.
