My Brother Joe Burson, American Hero

Today marks 2 years since my brother Joe Burson was tragically taken in the line of duty while serving as a police officer in Holly springs, Georgia. His heroism is remembered by many, and his dedication to his oath is a reminder that our country's freedom, security, and strength are not free.

Joe's name joins the wall in Washington, DC among the thousands of heroes who laid down their lives standing up for the values our Constitution provides for. Those who choose to defend America, both domestically and around the world, stand in the gap for those unable to defend themselves and those unable to find peace because of the ruthless evil some feel entitled to bring to the world.
Sadly, many of our nation's leaders refuse to stand by the men and women in uniform who continuously put their lives on the line. Heroes like Marine Daniel Penny, who came to the defense of his fellow NYC subway riders against an aggressor. Some in power, like Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg, attempt to gain political points by propping up mentally ill, law breaking thugs as victims.

Those who engage in pathetic political rhetoric at the expense of those swearing to protect the laws they create are not worthy of the freedom our country was founded on, and our citizens are starting to see their cowardice and lack of empathy for their fellow countrymen.

To the police officers, military service men and women, veterans, and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, I stand with you. Our family stands with you. And despite the absolutely demonic rhetoric and selfishness of those who have no respect for you, I pray that you will continue the good fight. Do not be discouraged by those who carelessly enjoy the rights and privileges our country provides, while cursing those who protect us.

Be relentless, be brave, and remember that countless Americans have died creating the country we live in today. Never forget it.

The following is a piece I composed in my brother's memory. His badge number, 235, is represented by a three note motif in the melody, and concludes with a reference to the call that I never imagined I would play for my own brother, Taps.

Please consider donating to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, whose goal is to honor the role of law enforcement, in service to society, by recognizing the sacrifices and valor of law enforcement, educating the community, and making it safer for those who serve.

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About Joe Burson (As Reported by Fox5 Atlanta News):

HOLLY SPRINGS, Ga. - The brother of fallen Holly Springs Officer Joe Burson is remembering the man he calls his hero.

John-Thomas Burson said it’s been the worst week of his life after learning his brother was killed in the line of duty.

John-Thomas honored his brother through music at the funeral services.

"I want to do nothing with the rest of my life but make my brother proud," John-Thomas Burson said.

It was an emotional tribute that honored his brother.

"I was his big brother but somehow my little brother has made me a stronger man," Burson said.

Burson was killed during the line of duty after he was dragged by a driver who tried to escape a traffic stop

"It’s the overwhelming support from so many people. Especially the people that Joe knew and were a big part of his life," Burson said.

John-Thomas said the support from the community is what’s getting the family through.

"Me and Joe were connected at the hip since we were kids. He was my best friend. There was nobody else in my life that had a big of an influence in my life like Joe," Burson said.

It was music that helped to seal the bond between the two brothers.

"We spent so much time jamming out in the basement. He would bring his friends over and we would connect a lot through that," Burson said.

"I realized that music was so important to the two us that I wanted to play for my brother one final time."

John-Thomas played during the service before playing his trumpet one last time outside to honor his hero.

"I think what happened on Monday is I didn’t know how to get through taps on my own and Joe’s car was right behind me. I felt him sitting in there behind me on Monday. I felt that’s the only way I got through it," Burson said.

Family members describe the fallen officer as brave and strong.

"He did exactly what first responders are supposed to do. He didn’t hesitate running into danger, protecting other people and saving lives," Burson said.

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Composer and Trumpet Artist John-Thomas Burson pursues his lifelong passion of inspiring others through both solo performances and as an ensemble musician. https://johnthomasburson.com/