Branch House and 2nd Judicial District Attorney General’s Office to Host 2023 Service & Protection Awards  

The public is proudly invited to attend the Annual Service & Protection Awards, hosted by Branch House – Sullivan County Family Justice Center and the 2^nd Judicial District Attorney General’s Office, on October 6, 2023, at 10 a.m.  The event will take place in the front lawn of the Branch House facility, 313 Foothills Drive, Blountville, TN. The Service & Protection Awards focus on remembrance of local fallen officers, recognition of outstanding service, and dedication to ending the cycle of domestic violence in our community.  The Mark Vance Award honors exceptional service by a member of law enforcement for their efforts in the prosecution of domestic violence cases.  The award is named in memory of Mark Vance, a Bristol Tennessee Police Officer who was killed in the line of duty in 2004 upon responding to a domestic disturbance. The Steve Hinkle Award recognizes a Professional of the Year who has provided exemplary support to victims in their journey to hope and healing.  This award was named in memory of Steve Hinkle, a Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant, who was killed in the line of duty in 2019 while conducting a welfare check.  The awards ceremony is held every October during Domestic Violence Awareness Month to raise awareness, show support, and honor those who have served in the fight to end domestic violence in our region.  A light lunch will be served following the event, and tours of the Branch House facility will be made available to attendees.