KNOXVILLE — It has been nearly a year since two Virginia State Police officers with East Tennessee ties were killed in a helicopter crash during the Charlottesville riots.
Next Tuesday, Trooper Berke Bates and Lt. Jay Cullen will both be honored at a ceremony for fallen officers.
"Everyday there’s something that happens, that makes us laugh, that makes us get kind of quiet and remember that day in August," said Craig Bates, Berke's brother. "He gave his life to protect people and that’s the most important thing to me."
The Virginia State Police helicopter crashed in Charlottesville, VA while patrolling the riots from above.
"Berke was willing to sacrifice himself to help other people, and that's what he did," said Craig. "It was his lifelong dream of flying and helping people by being a law enforcement officer."
A helipad in Richmond, VA already bares Trooper Bates' name in his honor.
Next Tuesday, portrait of Burke will be unveiled at the Virginia State Police Academy. He will be honored with his flight wings on his uniform, a sign he served his state and his country proud.