In each issue of Texas Life Magazine we dedicate one article to the brave men and women who make up our law enforcement communities. We highlight the courageous actions of officers across our great state and raise awareness on how you the reader can help support your local officers and agencies. Through the wearing of Back the Blue clothing, bumper stickers, support via social media, Back the Blue debit cards from First Financial Bank, donations, or simply thanking an officer when you see them, we always encourage you to do what you can to show our local heroes how much you respect and honor their sacrifices to protect our communities. Recently we were introduced to an amazing Texas singer/songwriter who is showing his support and respect of law enforcement through his songwriting.
Justin Heflin was raised in a family that loved music and always had a deep devotion to law enforcement. He stated he “was raised to always have and show respect for law enforcement.” Justin began playing piano at 8 years old and guitar at 12. He continued practicing music throughout high school and after graduation enrolled in the highly respected music program at South Plains College in Lubbock.
After years of devotion to his art Justin began creating ways of showing his support of law enforcement through his music. A local station in Kerrville was hosting a Serve and Protect Lyric Competition that encouraged musicians to submit their original lyrics for songs that were dedicated to raise awareness and support not only for those in law enforcement, but for their families as well. After speaking with close friend Clint Johnson, Justin soon began putting the lyrics and music together of what would eventually be the winning song.
Clint was raised in a family of law enforcement. He told Justin what it was like growing up with a father who was an FBI agent. He shared the emotions of not knowing if your dad was coming home for dinner and the worries the families of law enforcement officers carry with them each and every day. The range of emotions from being so proud, but yet being so worried and afraid. Along with Clint’s childhood experiences, and Justin’s own devotions to law enforcement, the song “Thin Blue Line” was created.
Justin wrote “Thin Blue Line” and entered it into the Serve and Protect competition. 1st prize was $1500.00 awarded to the songwriter to donate to any Law Enforcement program of their choosing. After Justin was selected as the winner he donated the winnings to The 100 Club. The 100 Club is a non-profit organization which provides financial support to the dependents of first responders who are killed or seriously injured in the line of duty. After the dedication of the winnings, The 100 Club used the funds to help support those in need in Justin’s local law enforcement community, the Gillespie County Sheriff’s Department.
Justin not only uses his talent to support law enforcement, he also does everything he can to help our wounded combat veterans returning home. He is a large part of Headwaters for Heroes which was founded to take combat veterans on hunting and fishing trips. They also teach outdoor skills, build handicap accessible deer blinds, arrange skeet shoots, and promote Gold Star programs that strive to take the children of fallen soldiers on hunting, fishing, and life skills trips. Justin always takes the time to play his music and do anything he can to support Headwaters for Heroes, Law Enforcement, and Military events.
It was a great honor to highlight an amazing individual like Justin Heflin. Not only is he an extremely talented singer/songwriter, he is also a true Patriot. His devotion to those who sacrifice so much of themselves to ensure our safety is second to none. I encourage each of you to show your support to this artist in any way you can. His song “Thin Blue Line” can be found on all streaming services and will receive its official nationwide radio release on January 7, 2022. If you are interested in booking Justin for your event or simply wish to thank him for his support for all of our first responders, visit his website at www.justinheflinmusic.com
As always we end our Back the Blue article by encouraging each of you to please show your support for law enforcement. Please thank them for their sacrifices and commitment to community safety when you see them in public. If your area has a First Financial Bank location please stop by and open an account and get your Back the Blue debit card. Take every chance possible to make them feel appreciated. God Bless.
