Editor, the News-Herald:

The outpouring of love and support from the citizens of Suffolk, Virginia, following the death of my nephew, Officer Drew Henley, has been overwhelming.

Although I was unable to attend the memorial service in Suffolk, the members of my family who did attend have told me of numerous examples of these expressions.

From the large number of members of law enforcement present, to Drew’s fellow officers who traveled to North Carolina for his burial, to the children who expressed their thanks for Drew helping keep them safe, to those who showed their respect and stood quietly in the rain as the motorcade passed, Suffolk truly showed its support, not only for Drew, but for the law enforcement community as a whole.

Drew truly loved his career as a Police Officer and died doing what he loved.

Although his death came far too quickly for us, we are comforted in knowing that he is in a much better place and that we will be reunited with him some day in our Heavenly home.

To the citizens of Suffolk who showed your support, I express my deep appreciation.

To Drew’s fellow officers, particularly those who traveled to North Carolina for his burial, the words &uot;Thank you&uot; don’t seem to say enough.

I said that to many of you whom I met while you were at his burial, but my words were always met with your own words expressing your love for Drew as a brother and fellow officer.

It was clear that you will be continuing to honor Drew’s memory through your future support for his wife, Chrissie, and children and I am extremely grateful for that.

The citizens of Suffolk can be proud, not only for having you as the members of law enforcement providing them with protection, but also for having you as fellow citizens.

Darrell Smith

Tallahassee, Florida