Raymond Surber
Deputy, Campbell County (TN) Sheriff’s Office
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am. Send me.” –Author Unknown
Early on, Deputy Surber knew he wanted to work in a field where he could help his community and make it a better and safer place to live. From a very young age, he knew that a career in law enforcement would help him achieve those goals. He began working as an auxiliary deputy for the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office on January 26, 2011 at the age of twenty-one. After just a few short months, he knew that becoming a deputy sheriff was his calling. An in the summer of 2011 he was accepted and enrolled into the fall program at Walters State Basic Police Academy. He completed his training on December 2, 2011 and graduated the academy class of 82.
After returning from police academy Deputy Surber was offered a full-time position at the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office where he currently has been employed since February 28, 2012. Since beginning his full-time career at CCSO Surber was given the opportunity to become a part time patrolman at LaFollette Police Department where he also has been employed since 2015.
Deputy Surber is very compassionate and caring when it comes to his family, job, and the town he lives in. His selfless acts have made him stand out in his community and with local leaders. In February 2015 Surber was bestowed the highest award given by the CCSO. The Medal of Valor was presented to him due to his life saving efforts in response to a call in early January 2015. When asked about the award and call Surber simply stated, “I was just doing my job.”
Being active in community policing and volunteering at local events is something Deputy Surber really enjoys. One event in particular is Shop with a Cop in Loving Memory of Detective Mike Starrett #302. Surber says, “Knowing that a child doesn’t have to go without on Christmas makes it worth it all. It’s also very important for children in our community to have a good and positive relationship with our local law enforcement. Even doing something as simple as helping children pick out their Christmas gifts can help build that bond.” Another activity that Surber finds very important is being a member of the CCSO Honor Guard. He says, “It is an honor and privilege to be able to serve my fallen brothers and sisters in blue as well as their families during these difficult times.”
Despite the hard calls and situations that he faces Surber says he has one goal each day, to make a difference and go to home safe. If he’s able to help at least one person, then he’s had a successful day on the beat. He hopes to continue to break the mold and persona that many have on those who are behind the badge.
