LEBANON, Ind. (WTHR) - Memorials have been growing for Deputy Jacob Pickett ever since Friday, when he was shot in the line of duty.
That's especially true in front of the Boone County Sheriff's Office. You can't take a look at his patrol car, draped in flowers and notes and teddy bears, and not get emotional.
It's an impressive scene with a non-stop flow of visitors who come to pay their respects. It's the way in which Hoosiers mourn a hero: tangibly, together.
The signs of support are everywhere in Lebanon. There are blue ribbons on trees and telephone poles, American flags, and public prayers for Deputy Jacob Pickett on store signs. Outside the sheriff's office, a memorial grows, with messages and mementos from a grateful community.
"This is how people do come together. It shows there's more good in this world," said Mary Haas, who drove with her husband from Bainbridge, to bring a bouquet to the patrol car.
"Thank you for protecting us. You saved our lives and you risked yours," read one handwritten note from a child. "You are safe up in heaven with God and Jesus. I can't wait to see you up in heaven."
They are all honoring the service and sacrifice of a fallen hero. And seeing the tributes have moved many to tears.
"I've never seen anything so sad as what I've seen this weekend," said Janet Randle, Lebanon.
It was only three days ago that the Boone County deputy was shot in the line of duty while helping serve a warrant.
In law enforcement, Deputy Pickett was truly one of the good guys. He took time to personally help Lisa Spangler during a domestic call.
"He was such a nice guy," Spangler said. "He was wonderful. He prayed with me that night."
As a K-9 team leader, Deputy Pickett formed a bond with his partner Brik, who visited the memorial Monday. This loss has been incredibly tough on him, too.
And then there's Deputy Pickett's family.
"I couldn't imagine...you know...what she's gonna have to go through," Haas said, through tears. "And those little boys?"
Many came here to pray for Jen Pickett and their two young sons. They shared cards and letters so they know their dad was a hero.
"My dad died when I was 12, so I know how children feel," said Janet Spears of Lebanon, "and then I lost my husband four-and-a-half years ago, so I know how she feels too...just makes me cry!"
It's a feeling so many have in Boone County and all across central Indiana.
There's sadness felt in the tokens and tributes in Lebanon. There's honor seen in the procession that carried Deputy Pickett's body downtown, with hundreds of officers riding right with him. And there's gratitude for a man who risked his life to keep his community safe.
The memorial on the patrol car will remain outside the sheriff's department until Friday's funeral.