RUTHERFORD COUNTY, Tenn. (WGNS) - A local deputy is back home protecting Rutherford County after completing a 10-month deployment with the U.S. Army National Guard.

Deputy Joshua Keaney returned to work at the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office (RCSO) on Thursday (September 17th). He deployed with the 1-278th Cobra Company in support of the Memphis Safe Streets Task Force.

To show appreciation for the support he received during his service, Deputy Keaney presented Patriot Award Certificates to five members of the department. The recipients include Sheriff Kenneth Barrett, Patrol Captain Nick Coble, Patrol Sergeant Brad Horne, Patrol Corporal Christina Hill, and Patrol Corporal Sean White.

The Patriot Award honors employers who support their employees' military service and help strengthen ties between civilian and military communities.

"We are thankful to have Deputy Keaney safely back at work," Sheriff Kenneth Barrett said. "We are grateful to him and his family for his service and sacrifice, and we are proud to have him back serving the Rutherford County community."

RCSO leaders noted they remain proud of all team members who serve as local first responders while also answering the call of duty in the armed forces.