State Representative Mike Sparks (R-Smyrna) today announced he is partnering with Steak 'n Shake during the grand opening of their new Smyrna restaurant to honor the family of Army Staff Sergeant Asbury Hawn.

As part of the restaurant opening taking place on Monday, November 5 at 10:00 AM, Sergeant Hawn's family will be the first customers at the new facility -- located at 951 Sgt. Asbury Hawn Way -- as a way to thank them for their many sacrifices, and to continue recognizing Hawn for his tremendous service to our nation.

A 1989 La Vergne High School graduate and former Nissan employee, Hawn heroically served his country during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He made the ultimate sacrifice for his country when he was killed in action on August 14, 2005.

"Sergeant Hawn remains a hero for our community, our state, and our entire nation," said Representative Sparks. "We must continue to honor his memory and support his family for the incredible sacrifices they have made. Monday's event is a small way we can once again thank and rally around them."

Representative Sparks has been a strong advocate for our military service members, veterans, and their families throughout his time serving in our General Assembly. In 2017, he backed the Support, Training, and Renewing Opportunity for National Guardsmen (STRONG) Act. This initiative allows our brave servicemen and women to achieve their educational dreams without fear of financial burden, thanks to a last-dollar tuition reimbursement to be used toward a first-time bachelor's degree.

Additionally, Sparks fought to safeguard veterans from being used as political pawns during a debate over whether to include veteran's property tax relief as part of the IMPROVE Act. The group eventually was able to reduce the amount of property tax owed by veterans, eligible low-income elderly, and disabled homeowners.

Earlier this year, Representative Sparks also supported House Bill 2138. It expands the POW/MIA Chair of Honor Program to include placement of an unoccupied chair containing the POW/MIA insignia at the Capitol campus in Nashville at no cost to taxpayers. The unoccupied chair is designed to serve as a solemn reminder of our soldiers who are still waiting to be brought home.

Mike Sparks serves as Vice-Chair of the House Calendar & Rules Committee. He is also a member of the House Insurance & Banking and House Business & Utilities Committees, as well as the House Business & Utilities Subcommittee. Sparks lives in Smyrna and represents House District 49, which includes part of Rutherford County. He can be reached by email at: Rep.Mike.Sparks@capitol.tn.gov or by calling (615) 741-6829.