Birthday sirens blared in metro Atlanta this week. DeKalb and Henry County sheriffs turned out for a celebration — a 101st birthday bash for Lillie Mae Hightower. Complete with a parade right in front of her home, Ms. Hightower, wearing a fancy tiara, was all smiles as deputies drove by, waving and sounding their sirens in honor of her centenarian milestone.
According to a FOX5 Atlanta report, Major Jerry Harrison from the Henry County Sheriff’s Office was among those who sought to make the day special for Ms. Hightower. The family gathered as patrol cars paraded by.
This show of affection by law enforcement was meant to bridge the usual gaps between the community and police, according to the sheriff's offices. Sheriff Reginald Scandrett emphasized the importance of community bonds, telling a WSB Radio interview, "101 years old. Do I need to say more?" he said in a video message.
Law enforcement agencies are calling on locals to join in on the festivities, albeit virtually. They're asking Georgians to extend their birthday wishes to Ms. Hightower, who now adds another year to her long history. For those wishing to send celebratory messages, engagements can be made through social media platforms where the Henry County Sheriff's Office maintains an active presence.
