Thanks so much for allowing me to help out in the programs that were 
organized at the TN Departments of Safety in the past few weeks.  I 
think it is an excellent way to create awareness for organ donation. 

One is right there at the spot where people are renewing their 
driver's license ‑ it could not get any better!  Also, building a 
relationship with the staff at the Tennessee Department of Safety (TDOS)
offices is important and it  looks like those I have met are very open to mentioning organ 
donation when people fill out their forms.  It sure felt like 
teamwork!  I hope this will be a continuous program.  People always 
have to renew their driver's license, and to me, our presence at the 
TDOS offices is essential to create an awareness ‑ people will start 
associating us with the renewal of their driver's license.  One 
should not happen without the other.  The regular presence of 
Tennessee Donor Services at these TDOS locations could sure become an 
extremely valuable tool in filling up the donor registries in 
Tennessee.  It is one thing for a sign to be posted, but to actually 
have you and volunteers there gives much more weight to what we are 
working for ‑ have more and more people sign up to become donors.

Again, I was thrilled to be part of it and sure hope that this will 
become part of Tennessee Donor Services' curriculum. 

With many kind regards,

Olga de Klein
Donor Mother

To:       Tennessee Department of Safety
             Memphis, Tennessee

REF:    Trooper Dwayne M. Stanford

I am writing in reference to an incident that happened in our county on April 04, 2008.
An armed robbery occurred at a business at the intersection of Hwy 7 and Hwy 72.
The suspect fled into Tennessee by way of Hwy 18 to Hwy 57.  Trooper Stanford spotted the vehicle and stopped the suspect which in turn led to the subject being extradited back to Mississippi.

I would like to highly commend the job and professionalism of Trooper Stanford.  He is an asset to your agency.

If you ever need us for anything, please to not hesitate to ask.

Sincerely,

A.A. McMullen, Sheriff
Benton County Mississippi

I wanted to write and express my sincere appreciation for the staff at
the Department of Safety offices across the state. My husband passed
away in 2003 and had signed up to be an organ donor on his license. His
Gift of Life saved 3 people & helped dozens more. His donation has also
given me comfort in knowing that 3 families are together & enjoying life
because of Jim's Gift.

Your examiners save lives every day when they ask people in a positive
way if they are donors on their licenses. Please pass along my
gratitude & praise for their efforts...they truly are critical to
donation and transplantation in Tennessee. Where else can you ask
EVERYONE to Donate Life?

Very sincerely,

Kim Kennedy, Donor Wife

I am writing to express my and my family’s appreciation for what the Department of Safety is doing for our TN State Donor Registry and Donate Life Month.  I am a recent lung transplant recipient, and am forever grateful for the gift of life I was given by a loving and caring Donor Family nine months ago.  It is through tireless efforts by your staff of caring individuals asking for Donor Registration at the time of driver licensing that leaves hope for the 100,000 people on the list awaiting transplants.  THANK YOU seems so small for what your staff is doing.  Please pass on to your people my sincere appreciation.

Forever grateful,

Fred Browner

To: Tennessee Department of Safety

On April 5, 2005 a 16 year old man had the “big day.”  He passed his driving test.  When the clerk asked about being an organ donor, he asked her what it meant.  She explained that by signing the back of his license that he agreed to be an organ donor in the event of his death.  She also explained that there was a need for donors.  His response was “Cool,” and he signed. 

On May 12, 2005, in the late afternoon, he was on his way to officiate a soft-ball game.  He was the catcher on the high school team.  His sister was the catcher on the soft-ball team.  He didn’t make it.  He was stopped by an oak tree.  On May 20, 2005, in the evening, he was pronounced brain dead and his mother honored his wish to be an organ donor.  Because of the patience and professionalism of the clerk, I received his heart at 12:30 on May 21, 2005.  The young man was from Alabama, but he was sent to Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga.

Tennessee is blessed with more transplant centers than any other southern state.  Not only does Tennessee benefit from the work of your department, but also donors and recipients from our neighbors.  Because of your program of signing up donors, we have nationally recognized transplant centers in Nashville.  I have worked many hours in booths encouraging people to become organ donors.  In the vast majority of the cases they have a red heart on the front of their license, but the signature on the back of their license was rubbed off.  (We keep a “Sharpie” handy)  Another problem is that often the family does not know the persons desire to be an organ donor.  Last year if only 30 more eligible donors had been identified, it is possible that Tennessee would have had no deaths waiting for an organ.

This problem will be greatly resolved with the Registry.  Thank you so much for making it possible to save and enhance so many lives.  As a recipient, I know that the work done by this Department is the very foundation of Organ and Tissue Donation awareness.  Not only do you keep us safe in our travels, but you also provide the very foundation for the saving of life through organ donation.

Thank you so much,

Dale C. Flowers
Heart Recipient May 21, 2005 at St. Thomas Hospital

To: Trooper Gann,

Thank you for all the help you provided during our flat tire experience.  Without your help, I do not know what we would have done.  You are a credit to the Tennessee State Troopers, and we will always have fond memories as we travel your state. Best wishes to you and continued success.

Sincerely,

Jim Hamilton and The Purple Aces Golf Team
Evansville, IN

To: Tennessee Department of Safety

I wanted to express my appreciation for the skill and kindness that was displayed to me during the processing of my handgun permit. Kim Draper made my experience a very pleasant and uncomplicated one. You are privileged to have her as an employee.

Thank you,

Robert Glenn

To: Tennessee Department of Safety

A few months ago, I was traveling south on I-65 and was near the Moore’s Lane exit when my car ran out of gas. It was very hot, and my car is not air-conditioned. I called for help, Trooper Jason Cannon arrived, drove me to get gasoline and helped me upon arriving back to my vehicle.

He was very friendly, courteous and professional. Someone was riding along with him at the time, and I was wondering if he was in training. If that was the case, I must say that he is off to a good start!

I am glad to report Trooper Cannon’s outstanding service, and I wish him well in the future with the THP.

Elizabeth Anna Faria

To:  Department of Safety

I needed to update my driver license with my new married name.  I had heard from others that they had a long wait, but my wait was only about ten to fifteen minutes.  The staffs were wonderful; they were professional, courteous, and pleasant and provided excellent service.  I couldn’t be happier!

Thank you,

Vonsille Huddleston

To: Tennessee Department of Safety

I just wanted to say thank you for the updated renewal process.  I was in and out within ten minutes.  Your staff at the Gallatin, Tennessee location was great, efficient and friendly.

Major Kudos!

Sue DiCero

To: Department of Safety, Financial Responsibility,

Everybody is in a hurry and never seems to take the time to tell anyone how much they are appreciated. We, at Marion County General Sessions, appreciate what June Parker and the other ladies do to help us.

Thanks for all your help,

Linda Rector

To: Sgt. Michael McAlister,

I want to thank you again for your visit to the Lawrenceburg campus on Tuesday, March 11. I think the students enjoyed hearing from a professional outside the college who uses some of the same concepts that they are studying in the trigonometry and physical science classes. We appreciate your efforts on this presentation as well as what you do daily in the state of Tennessee.

I gave my comments to two other instructors. They may contact you at a later date to have you visit their classes, if not this semester then in another one. I will want you to come back as well and will keep in touch with you to do so.

Thanks again and best always,

Glenn Hudson, Ph.D.
Science and Mathematics Division
Columbia State Community College
Columbia, TN

To Whom It May Concern:

On behalf of the citizens of Macon County and Mrs. Kimberly Hale’s fourth grade class in particular, we would like to sincerely thank you for your hard work and efforts in helping us restore our rural community of Lafayette, Tennessee to a safe place after the recent devastating tornado.  As we begin the healing process, it is important to recognize those who took time out for us.  Students in our class range from those who never heard the wind blow to those whose homes were total losses.  Thankfully, our class was not directly affected by the loss of souls.  Although we may never have the opportunity to thank each one of the many workers/volunteers in person, please accept these cards as a symbol of our gratitude, and know that we pledge together to “pay it forward” to those around us.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Hale’s 4th Grade Class

Dear Lt. Colonel Strawther,

I wanted to follow up on our telephone conversation Tuesday February 12, 2008. Colonel, I would like to thank you on behalf of myself, and my entire family for the kindness, and sympathy you rendered to us after my father passed away Friday, February 8, 2008. We all appreciate you helping us to secure the THP Honor Guard at the chapel and at Dad’s funeral services Sunday. We will never forget your help and kindness during this time.

We would additionally thank, commend and recognize the following troopers who comprised the honor guard.

Lt. Kendall R. Riley (Cookeville District 6)
Sgt. Mark Dial (Cookeville District 6)
Sgt. Steven N. Lowery (Nashville District 3)
Sgt. Benjamin M. Williams (Nashville District 3)
Sgt. Terrell Johnson (Nashville District 3)
Trp. Aussie Thaxter (Nashville District 3)

Colonel, my father was a World War II veteran and served 25 years with the THP.  He would have been extremely proud of each and everyone of these men.  They were all extremely sincere, well-disciplined, and trained in the operation they performed.  They each conveyed the highest honor that could be shown with pride, integrity and extreme professionalism.  These men are each and every one an asset to the Tennessee Highway Patrol and to the State of Tennessee.  These men portray a highly positive image of our great state and the Tennessee Highway Patrol.  The entire Eldridge family would like to convey our gratitude to each of them for their professionalism and the honor they showed my father at his services.

We would also like to thank Sgt. Tony Wilson of the Cookeville District for escorting Dad’s funeral from the Algood Chapel to his final resting place at Paran Cemetery in Overton County.  Sgt. Wilson volunteered his own time to escort the funeral procession up old highway 42, past my father’s residence, and we appreciate his dedication.

Sincerely,
Ricky D. Eldridge

To: Gallatin Driver License Station

The Gallatin Driver License Station is a credit to the State of Tennessee. Coming from New Jersey, I am not used to a state agency being so friendly and operating so efficiently. Deborah Simmons and Melissa Birdsell were very helpful when I made a mistake filling out my driver license application. They offered great customer service. The station has a very pleasant atmosphere – very organized and efficient system. Billy Sherlin was great!

Satisfied Customer

To: Hart Lane Driver License Station

My visit to the Hart Lane location was a wonderful experience. I was better than satisfied. Rene Abelta is an excellent representative for the Hart Lane Station and for Tennessee. Rene did an excellent job and displayed expertise, genuine courtesy and efficiency.

Happy Customer

To: Commissioner Dave Mitchell

I would like to take this opportunity to compliment two members of the Department of Safety for a job well done.

Recently, I attended the annual school bus endorsement class for code 2 training at Peabody High School in Trenton. Trooper Joe Humphries and School Bus Inspector Larry Sims were the instructors for the presentation. Trooper Humphries always has a well-prepared and well-presented program. The video on school bus evacuation reminded us of the dangers we face daily in the operation of buses.

Bus Inspector Larry Sims is a dedicated employee, who, in past years, has exhibited thoroughness as he has performed annual inspections of the buses prior to them being put on the road for the school year. I transport 90 to 114 children on the regular and shuttle routes each day. Keeping your focus on the children and observing the motoring public is a full-time job. It is reassuring to know that Trooper Humphries and Inspector Sims are working to keep all of us safe.

Lanny Poteet
Trenton Special School District

To: Gallatin Driver License Station

Recently I renewed my driver license at your station in Gallatin. To be truthful, I was not looking forward to the task, but I was greeted by a lovely lady wearing a smile. She joked and made everyone smile. She asked trivia questions, had fun doing her job and in turn, made the whole experience enjoyable. The lady who took our photos laughed and smiled, making the experience a good one. I just wanted to say thank you to everyone for being so nice.

Margaret Johnson
Goodlettsville

To: Tennessee Highway Patrol

The engine in my car died, so I was driving my dad’s truck until my vehicle was fixed. Unknown by me, the gas gauge doesn’t work on the truck.

January 3, 2008, at 7:10 a.m., I ran out of gas on Highway 27 at mile marker 8. In the hour and a half or so, sitting in 17 degree weather and dark of the morning, I was passed by one policeman and later a rescue truck. After 8:00 a.m., a policeman did stop on my passenger side and asked if I had called anyone. He then called TDOT and left me. I was very cold and my feet were beginning to hurt.

I’m guessing it was about 8:20 a.m., when Trooper Stanley Carden pulled behind me. He assessed the situation and realizing how cold I was, made room in his car for me to sit and get warm.

TDOT was very busy that morning, and I am thankful to Trooper Carden for his kindness. David Tomlinson with TDOT was also very courteous and funny. They helped me through a difficult situation, and both said they were just doing their job. Well, they did their job with flair!

Please pat these guys on the back.

Sincerely,

Connie Lowe
Soddy Daisy, Tennessee
(original letter )

To: Commissioner Dave Mitchell,

On December 11, I visited your Straw Plains Driver License Testing Station at 7320 Region Lane, Knoxville, to acquire a Tennessee Driver License. While there, I met Mary Carmichael. Despite the fact that the office was extremely busy, Ms. Carmichael painstakingly and patiently answered all of my questions, professionally and expertly processed my paperwork and likewise, took the time to field questions from her co-workers. In addition, she assisted me with my voter registration.

I have spent the last 17 years practicing law in the private sector. As such, I am not unfamiliar with those public employees who assume a bureaucratic mindset. Ms. Carmichael clearly is not the aforementioned ilk, but rather, the consummate professional public servant who takes great pride in her work and in the Tennessee Department of Safety. Indeed, she is a credit to your organization.

Joseph G. Jarret

Attorney AT Law

To: THP 8th District

On Saturday, December 1, 2007, I was driving through Tennessee with my sister, Jackie, on my way to assist our parents, who are living in Arkansas.  We were laughing and talking about everything imaginable.  I was driving in the left lane going about 75 miles-per-hour when I pressed the gas pedal, and to my horror, nothing happened.  I had failed to notice the gas gauge.  Within seconds, I realized that I had run out of gas – me, the one who tells my husband that it is ridiculous to run out of gas!  I am always the one who is telling my boys to check and make sure that they have enough gas.  I quickly realized that I was going to have to eat a lot of words!

But first, I needed help and had no idea how to get it.  My first thought was to call 911.  I felt embarrassed doing it, because I know the 911 system is for emergencies, not for people who run out of gas.  The wonderful woman who answered the 911 call was just the person I needed.  I told her that I did not know where I was, and she was as calm and composed as she could be.  She put me in touch with the THP dispatcher, who was equally as calm.  In my panicked state, I did not get their names, but they were wonderful.

In about 30 minutes, Trooper Terry Milholen arrived.  I must tell you that my sister and I think that he has angel wings.  He was very professional and very respectful to two women who should know better.  He smiled, put us at ease and assisted us in getting to a gas station. (We got a ride in a squad car.  That was a new experience!)  He brought us back to our car.  After putting a couple gallons of gas into the tank, he followed us back to the station to make sure that our car tank was full and that we were on our way.  He refused to let us buy him lunch or even buy him a coke.

We know that the THP has so many more important things to do than contend with people who are not paying attention, but he took the time to help us.  He, along with the dispatchers, truly was an answer to our prayers.  I really was praying for God to send an angel to help us, and as I was standing on the side of the road, the angel showed up wearing a THP uniform.  Trooper Milholen and the two dispatchers are an asset to the State of Tennessee.

Thank you all.

Libby Perry

To: Tennessee Department of Safety

I have emailed in before to complain regarding the service at a driver’s testing center, but yesterday, I returned to the driver’s license station at Centennial Boulevard.  I had the good fortune to have Jonathan Townsend to help me.  He was the most helpful, knowledgeable and pleasant person.  I must compliment this employee.  He as everything you would want an employee to be.

Thanks very much.

Ricky Hutcherson

I just wanted to drop a note to you to let you know of the excellent service that I received from two women in your office: Madene Sweeny and Angela Robertson.

At the beginning of November, I called you office on two separate occasions to request Driver License information, and I asked if they would be able to get the information back to me fairly soon.  Madene and Angela were friendly, polite and extremely accommodating.  I forwarded the requested paperwork, and I received the information back within the hour.

I just wanted to let you know that we appreciate the dependable and outstanding service that we receive from your agency.  If we can ever be of assistance to you, please let us know.

Sincerely,

Betty Nally
Secretary
ATF Louisville Field Division

To: Tennessee Department of Safety
Attn: Jeanne Rush, Supervisor

“Miss” Jeanne, I want you to know that we appreciate so much the help and assistance you and your staff give us as we try to assist people who come to us with driver’s license problems.

All of you are always so courteous, understanding and willing to help.  June, for instance, just gave me some much-needed help on a driver’s license situation, and I really appreciate it.

In this day and time, when we usually have to communicate with voicemail and go through many dialing options to reach a person, it is so nice to be able to call up your office and get a nice, helpful courteous person.  Please keep up the good work!

Merry Christmas to all of you.

Nancy Silvertooth
Circuit Court Clerk

To: Commissioner Dave Mitchell

On November 24, 2007, my family was returning fro Michigan on I-24 near the Jasper exit. A mechanical failure caused the lights on the vehicle to go out, leaving my family vulnerable to approaching traffic from the rear. Fortunately, they were able to coast off the interstate onto the Jasper/Kimball exit and into the parking lot of a local motel.

I received a call from my wife who was in panic from the experience. I told her to stay put, and I would get some help. I contacted the Nashville THP District Office who put me in touch with the Chattanooga District Office. I spoke to Trooper Patrick Turner, who shared my concern for the situation. He assured me that he would have a trooper there immediately. Trooper Steven Bourque was dispatched and arrived a few minutes later, making contact with my wife. Due to the late hour and being the weekend, the repair shops and rental car facilities were closed.

Trooper Bourque assured my wife that everything would be okay. My family checked into the local motel for the night. This Trooper made arrangements to have someone to go to the local auto parts store to obtain an alternator and to install the part on the vehicle – on Sunday!

In my 27-year career as a Georgia State Trooper, I have had the opportunity to help fellow law enforcement personnel from other states, but rarely have I had to call for help for myself. Please allow me to express my deep gratitude to your department and staff. Also, I would like to thank the Trooper for their help and especially, Trooper Bourque for his actions beyond the call of duty. These men represent the highest caliber of professionalism. Trooper Bourque came to the rescue of frightened members of my family and assured them of help. Please convey my sincerest gratitude to them.

Master Trooper J.C. Price (retired) Georgia

To:  Department of Safety,

I have just visited the driver license station at the Hickory Ridge Mall in Memphis to renew my license and have a new photo made.  I must tell you that it was the most pleasant and efficient experience I have had with any governmental agency at any level.

The people were courteous and efficient.  Everything was computerized, and I was in and out of there in less than 18 minutes, with a new license in hand.

Thank you, and I hope you will strive to achieve this kind of service in all areas where you serve the public.

Dave Harris
Memphis

I am writing to tell you about my experience with Safety employee, John Brownlee.

I called to talk to him about reinstating my son’s driver license.  Mr. Brownlee was very kind and polite to me.  Mr. Brownlee’s professional attitude and caring were very much appreciated.  I am happy to know that the State employs a man, such as Mr. Brownlee.

Thank you very much.

David Trent

To: Sergeant Michael McAlister

Once again, I would like to that you for taking time out of your busy day to come and speak to my class.  I have included thank you notes from the students.  On Thursday, when I spoke with them, all of them said that they really enjoyed your presentation.  I know that I certainly did, and I was fascinated to hear how your CIRT teams function.

I hope that we will be able to have you come speak to us again next school year.

Mike Weeks
Principles of Technology Instructor
LaVergne High School

To: Trooper Jimmy Stevens

I know you probably do not remember me.  I was on my way home from Cookeville and ran off the road just north of Dunlap.  I just wanted to send you a little note to tell you how much I appreciated your help.  That was the first accident I have had, and you really helped ease my nerves, making me feel better about the situation. I appreciate you staying with me until my parents arrived, and the wrecker got there.  I know all of this is just part of the job for you, but it really meant a lot to me and my parents.

Thanks again,

Mande Humphrey

To: Trooper Steve Bourque

While traveling from Kentucky to Florida with my wife, Carol, and father-in-law, I had a flat tire on the interstate ten miles north of Chattanooga.  My wife called 911, and very soon Trooper Bourque was there.  Quickly understanding that he was in the midst of people who had no idea about how to change a tire, and with the heavy traffic only a few feet away, he kept us off the road at a safe distance while he proceeded to change the tire.

My family and I commend the Tennessee Highway Patrol for their professionalism, courtesy and efficiency so splendidly displayed by Trooper Bourque.

Don Johnson

To: Tennessee Highway Patrol

On September 15, while I was traveling on I-40 near mile marker 20, my vehicle had a blowout.  Trooper Michael Bolton pulled up behind me as soon as I pulled off the interstate.  I feel that he went beyond the call of duty.  I had pulled onto the left shoulder.  Due to the heavy volume of traffic, I was not able to pull off to the right.  Trooper Bolton helped me to pull to the right shoulder, and then he changed my tire for me.  I have never had a Trooper be so nice and polite as Trooper Bolton was.

So many times, we do not take the time to acknowledge the care and concern that Troopers have for our safety.  I feel very fortunate to have received help from such a caring Trooper as Trooper Bolton.

Thank you,

Margaret Sevier

I just got back to my office from taking my daughter to the Lebanon DMV (Driver License Center) to get a duplicate driver's license (her's was lost over the weekend). As usual, the lobby was full and there was a line to get a number. But this time, something was different. There was a magic box over in the corner called the Self-Service Kiosk. Instead of waiting 2.5 to three hours, as was the current wait, we now have the option of using the kiosk to save time... and that's an understatement! We were literally in and out with a new license in... are you ready... FIFTEEN MINUTES! WOOHOO! Kudos, kisses, and all manner of hoopla to the person who came up with this fabulous magic box!
Now if only we can figure out how to get these magic boxes in DOCTORS' offices...

Bravo! Bravo!

Mary Murphy
One happy TN taxpayer

To Trooper Boles: 
 
I wanted to say thank you from the bottom of my heart.  My children were in a car heading on 24 to Chattanooga from Manchester Friday night, when a tractor-trailer hit a piece of rubber from a blown tire. The rubber hit the front of my mother's car and busted the windshield. You graciously took them to the Stuckey's and waited until my sister was contacted to come get them. Your patience with my children, who can be very trying in the best of circumstances, was greatly appreciated. This incident reinforced my gratitude to be working with the troopers and law enforcement officers throughout the State of Tennessee.
 
Again, you are from now on one of my hero's. Although I hate to say this, but if you had been driving one of the Chargers or a marked car my son would be talking about you even more than he is already.
 
 
Thank you,
 
Rhonda Hutt

I would like to thank the Trooper that picked me and my mother up on the east side of Interstate 40 on the other side of exit 24‑25 Arlington, TN.

Today it was hot and my car ran hot and would not crank. My mother and I were in the heat and the Officer stopped and offered his help. He was not able to help us, but he did give us a ride back to the Horizon at the Airline Road Exit. The Traffic was at the highest of the day and being on the side of the road is dangerous. I did not get Officer's name. The time of day was about 5:00 pm.  I would like to make sure that this Officer know how much we appreciated his act of kindness and not let us stand out in the heat and the traffic. I would like to also thank the THP For doing a good job in protecting and keeping Tennessee citizens safe on the highways.

Thanks,
Tracy Hall
Mason, TN

Col. Walker,

I would like to share how one of your State Troopers went above and beyond the call of duty.  My name is Criss Wheeler.  I am a single mother of three girls. I own a company, Priority Ultrasound, a mobile radiology unit, that requires me to travel I-40 from Memphis to Nashville about six times a month.  On Aug. 27, 2007, I was west bound on I-40 around mile marker 142. I had moved to the left lane, passing an eighteen wheeler when my front tire blew out.  I almost hit the truck and went all the way over to the right side of the road.  I had my three girls with me, which at this point were hysterical and crying.  I pulled off the road as much a possible. It was pitch black and no exits in site. I put my flashers on and tried to calm down the girls. I stepped out of my Tahoe to check out the damage and see if I even had a spare. I never in my life had been more scared. As I was walking to the back, an eighteen wheeler was coming towards us in the right lane it swerved of the road a slight bit then corrected itself as it honked. I never knew how fast 70mph really was until that moment. I was frozen with fear. I got back in my car and had no idea of what to do. Every time a big truck would come by I would watch in my rear view mirror to make sure it would not hit us as the entire car would shake.  I sat there for about an hour not knowing what to do. I finally got service and called information and eventually got
connected to you, the hwy patrol. They said they would send someone out. That is where Trooper Plotzer, my hero, comes in. He very politely introduced himself, reassured me and said he would help me. He did exactly that and more. Changing this tire was not an easy task, seeing as if I did not have all the stuff I needed.  I could not help but think, it was still dark, it was still hot, and it was still very dangerous, the trucks going 70mph were still there. Trooper Plotzer did something I could not do, he protected my children and myself. For that I am eternally grateful. He will always be in my prayers. Not only did he change my tire, he followed me about 5 miles to the nearest exit to put more air in it. He also gave me the number for the hwy patrol, so if I ever had another problem on the hwy I would know who to call. He did not have to do any of that.  This man put his life on the line to protect ours. He showed more compassion, strength, and character than most people could only dream about. I will feel safe doing my weekly trips to Nashville knowing he is protecting our hwy and the people on them. He will be in my prayers and may god bless him and his family. I am truly thankful.
 
Sincerely,
Criss Wheeler

Dear Commissioner Mitchell,

I just wanted to take the time to commend one of your officers, Travis Ryans.  About a month ago, he came to our aide at Euchee Marina.  As we left the building, three men assaulted us verbally and followed us down to our vehicle.  Frightened, my husband called Mr. Ryans because he knew he was an officer and hoped he could help us diffuse the situation.  Unfortunately, Officer Ryans was physically assaulted by one of the men.  He used his superb training to subdue the assailant and the situation quickly dissipated.  Without Mr. Ryans’ aide, I am afraid the outcome could have been much worse for my husband and me.  I personally feel much safer knowing that officers like Mr. Ryans are doing their part to protect the public.  He is a product of a state system that exhibits a high level of integrity and is in my opinion one of the best in the country.

Sincerely,

Cayce Rountree

I am pleased to file a commendation for professional conduct and courtesy for Driver's License Examiner Officer Human of the Rockwood TN station.  After having passed the written portion of her test in July, on August 15, 2007, my wife, Lihui Hu was examined for the driving portion by Officer Human in Rockwood TN.
My wife, who is Chinese, is fluent in English but often has trouble understanding my and other's east TN accent.  I explained this to Officer Human, who then professionally and courteously spoke slowly and clearly when giving instructions for the exam.  I appreciated this and would like to state this for the record.
 
Henry Hedden

Well Done! On behalf of those who must commute U.S. 129 daily, THANK YOU.  And on behalf of those who may now resume taking this scenic and much shorter route into Tennessee, THANK YOU. 

Job well done, guys.

J. Extine

Just wanted to say "Thanks" for a job well done. Trooper Cox went well beyond his job. He stayed with my 17 year old daughter, Chelsey while emergency staff moved her wrecked vehicle to free her from the vehicle.  She was ejected from vehicle and pinned under her car.  Trooper Cox held her hand and talked to her through the whole horrible ordeal.   Chelsey continues to tell her friends and family about how Trooper Cox comforted her.  Not only was he very comforting at the scene of the accident, Trooper Cox called to check on my daughter several times after the accident. 

Trooper Cox impressed me and my family. You never hear of good things about people any more.  I just wanted to let you know what a great asset Trooper Cox is to the State of Tennessee and the Tennessee Highway Patrol.  I have worked in the Weakley County driver license office for seven years.  As you know, the majority of the stories we hear in driver license are not always positive.   It is rewarding to know that Trooper Cox goes above and beyond the call of duty to represent the State of Tennessee and the Highway Patrol.

Would you please express to your superiors, our appreciation for Trooper Cox's assistance during Chelsey's accident?  

Sincerely,

Trina Morris

This is probably the only e-mail you’ll get supporting the crackdown on U.S. 129, but Thank You for your code enforcement efforts on U.S. 129.  As a motorcycle rider myself, I applauded your work.

Far too many riders have been injured or died on that section of road.  The real sad part is they have taken many innocent riders with them.  The “Tail of the Dragon” is famous, no doubt.  I want to be able to ride it in safety.  Your continued hard work will ensure that for myself and many more.  Please keep up the good work.

Thankfully yours,

Don Bitter