Bryan appointed sheriff

Interim Sheriff Robert Bryan will complete the remainder of former Sheriff Terry Ashe’s term as Wilson County's full-fledged sheriff.

The Wilson County Commission voted 19-2 Monday to appoint Bryan to serve as sheriff until the next election in 2014. Two members abstained during the paper ballot vote.

Commission members were asked to choose between Bryan and Deputy Chief James Hambrick with of the Mt. Juliet Police Department.

“I’m humbled by all the support that’s here tonight,” said Bryan.

Members of the Wilson County Sheriff’s Department and the public at large filled the county commission chambers, standing along the walls when no more seats were available.

Bryan, 42, is familiar to many Wilson County residents after having served a total of 27 years in both the Lebanon Police Department and the Wilson County Sheriff’s Department. He also served as Ashe’s assistant chief deputy before Ashe selected him to serve as interim sheriff.

Bryan is the son of former Wilson County Sheriff Cecil Bryan, who served from 1968-74.

In a bittersweet coincidence, Monday’s appointment fell 12 years and one day after Cecil Bryan’s death.

Bryan recalled a conversation he had with his father shortly before his father’s death in which his father predicted that with hard work and determination, Bryan would one day become sheriff.

“Daddy was right again,” said Bryan.

After taking his oath of office, Bryan was given the first sheriff’s badge that his father wore.

Hambrick praised Bryan after the vote.

“Robert Bryan is a great guy and a great choice,” said Hambrick. “I’m very happy for him.”

Regarding his plans for his term, Bryan said he plans to keep the department moving forward and make the transition as smooth as possible.

“There will be no drastic changes,” said Bryan, “but I’m going to leave my thumbprint."

Staff writer Sara McManamy-Johnson can be reached at 615-444-3952, ext. 16 or sjohnson@lebanondemocrat.com.