The image of Gary Snow went everywhere in an instant. It was the moment he didn’t anticipate during a tragedy he never expected.
He says he simply wanted to show support to a hero fighting to stay alive. When Deputy William Gentry was shot Sunday night, it didn’t seem real.
In the small town of Sebring, neighbors are considered family. Seeing one of their own shot while protecting and serving others was unthinkable.
Gary knew he needed to do something. He wanted to show support for a fellow citizen, a man who woke up every morning, ready to save lives by risking his own.
Gary wanted to be near the deputy, close by, showing solidarity. He stood outside Lee Memorial Hospital with the flag in hand, honoring this brave member of the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office who was fighting to stay alive.
Gary would stand there for six hours.
“I couldn’t sleep,” Gary said.
“I stood there and I prayed. I hoped for the best outcome. I wish he was standing here right now.”
Someone snapped a photo of Gary and shared it online. It became a powerful image, a symbol of solidarity and hope for a man protecting the community he served.
Gary was among hundreds who honored this fallen deputy Wednesday night.
In the crowd, there was heartache, but also hope.
Those who love the city of Sebring and Highlands County say it’s people like Gary who make this place they love so much home.
