SMYTH COUNTY Va. (WJHL) — Monday marked ten months since Smyth County Deputy Hunter Reedy was killed in the line of duty.

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin signed a bill to name a Smyth County bridge in memory of Deputy Hunter D. Reedy. Speaking in a crowded room at the Smyth County Sheriff’s Office, Youngkin expressed hope that this dedication would serve as a lasting tribute to Deputy Reedy’s sacrifice.

“Deputy Reedy went to work to serve people in Smyth County, and he didn’t return home,” Youngkin stated. “It’s crucial that we pause to acknowledge not only the courageous work of our law enforcement members throughout the Commonwealth but also the families who support them.”

The bridge, located along State Route 11, also known as Adwolf Road, spans Interstate 81. This location holds significance beyond its practical use and is meaningful to Reedy’s widow, Bettina.

“This is a bridge that leads to the farm where we got married,” Bettina said. “(It leads to) where he was raised. It is a huge connection for us. And so for it to have that bridge. It is an honor.”

Bettina and the couple’s three children along with several other family members and dignitaries from across the Commonwealth were at Monday’s ceremony, including Del. Israel O’Quinn and Attorney General Jason Miyares.

Miyares said the ceremony was not just about Reedy’s death, but his life.

“The impact to this community when we lost one of our heroes and not just honoring not just how he died, but how he lived every day protecting his fellow Virginian,” Miyares said.

Smyth County Sheriff Chip Shuler called these past ten months a new normal for Smyth County- the time after “evil came to their community.”

“We’ll never be the same. Huge hole left in everybody’s heart, plus our ranks,” Shuler said. “So, yeah, we just try to go one day at a time. And we’re moving forward. We’re taking care of business like we’re supposed to do.”

“One day at a time” is also how Bettina describes life, but through the sadness, she says she’s still blessed with support from the governor and the community.

“Nobody’s forgotten. We still have people with us and an outpouring of support, still,” she said.

Shuler told News Channel 11 he’s not exactly sure when the sign will be put on the bridge, but he says at that time, there will be another ceremony.