Hamilton County, TN - Today, December 22, 2015, HCSO Deputies had the privilege of hosting a Santa Train for a special Highway 58 family in need of assistance. This family, comprised of six family members, was brought to the Sheriff's attention by Deputy William Valenzuela.

The Denham family consists of Joshua and Rebekah and their four children, Jacob (14), Savannah (12), Shaun (9), and Hayleigh (6).

For well over a year, Deputy Valenzuela has helped this family with necessary items and was concerned that this year, without additional assistance, the four Denham children would not have any Christmas presents.

Deputy Valenzuela reached out to his supervisors and worked with the Highway 58 Fire Department, the local Forgotten Child Fund, and the HCSO PIO Office to create a special Santa Train to ensure the Denham children had a "Merry Christmas."

"I am very proud of Deputy Valenzuela for his compassion and generosity," stated Sheriff Jim Hammond. "It is apparent he has a servant's heart and is committed to going above and beyond the call of duty to take care of the citizens for which he serves."

The Santa Train, consisting of numerous HCSO deputies, Forgotten Child Fund personnel, CPD officers, and Highway 58 Fire Department personnel, stretched almost the length of the Denham's property and back out onto the street. Little Shaun (9), was extremely

pleased to see all the fire trucks and police cars! He couldn't wait to see Santa.

On hand to support the Santa Train was Sheriff Jim Hammond, Chief Deputy Allen Branum, Director Gino Bennett, Captain Charles Lowery, Jr., Lt. Robert Starnes (who played Santa), and deputies' William Valenzuela, Jennifer Moody, and Corporal James Nayler.

Various members of the media were also on hand to cover the event. Special thanks to News Channel 9 and the Chattanooga Times Free Press.

It is also important to note that HCSO Lieutenant Robert Starnes is celebrating his 30th Anniversary of playing Santa for the Forgotten Child Fund.

This event showcases the fact that each and every day, HCSO deputies go above and beyond to make a difference in the community to which they live, work, and play.