Oath Keepers Stand Guard at Jesus Sign

HAWKINS — The controversial “Jesus Welcomes You to Hawkins” Sign” is now getting some extra protection. On Monday, the city of Hawkins voted in a closed meeting to remove the sign, though disagreement continues over whether it’s on public or private property. The issue began drawing attention after the Freedom from Religion Foundation voiced objections to the display. Meanwhile, Mayor Will Rogers tells KETK there have been threats of vandalism to the sign. That’s why the local chapter of the Oath Keepers began standing guard starting Friday afternoon.

A volunteer chaplain with the group says members are making sure no one’s constitutional rights are taken away. He also says they’re not trying to overthrow the city of Hawkins. “But when we deem a legitimate breach of the Constitution or the Bill of Rights has been perpetrated, then if somebody so chooses to call us, to ask for our help upon vetting and we deem that it is a viable thing to get involved with, then yes, we come and provide personal protection at absolutely no cost to the citizenry of the United States of America,” says Oath Keepers’ volunteer chaplain Frank. Frank says they will stand and protect the sign until there has been a court ruling on it.

According to the Oath Keepers’ website, the group is a “non-partisan association of currently serving military, reserves, National Guard, veterans, Peace Officers, and Fire Fighters who will fulfill the oath we swore, with the support of like minded citizens who take an oath to stand with us, to support and defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic, so help us God.” Sign supporters held a rally Saturday morning and afternoon.