In the early morning hours of Sunday, December 7, Sumner County Deputy Brian Denning lost his life in an on-duty traffic crash. While planning for the funeral, Major Carl Edison of the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office asked me to put together and oversee a task force of officers from local agencies, as well as the Troopers stationed in Sumner County to handle calls and aggressively patrol the county during the funeral so that all members of the Sheriff’s Office could attend the services.

As part of this plan, all Sumner Troopers were working on December 11. About 12:43 p.m. Sumner Dispatch received a 911 call from a citizen advising that he had just returned home and observed a suspicious vehicle leaving his driveway. He further advised that the door to his home had been forced open. Dispatchers quickly broadcast a description of the suspect vehicle. Within five minutes of the call, Trooper Jason Flatt advised that he was behind the vehicle. In the meantime, the victim had advised us there were several guns and other items missing from the residence. Trooper Flatt was advised to follow the suspects until additional units could arrive to assist. Within one minute of the transmission, Trooper Justin Roll and Trooper Adam Grinder arrived to assist Trooper Flatt in conducting a felony stop of the suspect vehicle. As a result of a well-conducted felony stop, both suspects were taken into custody without incident, and all stolen property was recovered. After turning the case over to Gallatin detectives, the Troopers went back into service and assumed traffic posts, assisting in moving the funeral procession from the church to the cemetery.

The quick and safe apprehension of these potentially dangerous individuals is a testament to the fact that the Troopers were executing their jobs to the fullest that day. I am very proud of the account all of the Sumner Troopers gave of themselves throughout the detail. Their actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the THP. They are commended for their excellence in service.

Sergeant Jack Vaughn

Over the holiday weekend, my parents and I were returning from Florida when we had a flat on I-26 northbound, just south of exit 40. After several anxious minutes, in the dark on the side of the road, Trooper Jason Andes pulled in behind us. He was exceptional in his professionalism and courtesy. He helped change the tire in the cold and wet and made sure we were safe.

My son is a Virginia State Trooper, and I do not think the daily routine of highway assistance gets the credit it deserves. I am grateful for Trooper Andes and want him to know how important his work is. Thank you.

Billie Schneider,
Bristol, Virginia

I drive a truck and haul hazardous material all of the time. I have been inspected in your state several times over the years and three times by Trooper Bobby Taylor at the Brownsville Scales. He is the kindest and most respectful Trooper I have ever encountered. He is very thorough with his inspections but does not nitpick you to death, looking for revenue as so many other places around the country do. It is good to be inspected sometimes as it never hurts for a third set of eyes to look things over. I and my company try to keep everything in excellent order, but sometimes, something may slip by. Having an inspection periodically catches things like that. In my 38 years of driving, I have encountered a handful of fine troopers around the country. Trooper Taylor is, for sure, at the top of that list. Thanks for recruiting such a fine person.

Ricky Jennings,
Blanchard, Oklahoma

When my tire blew out last Saturday on I-75, Sergeant Phillip Dunn and Trooper Charles Melhorn went above and beyond what you had to do to get us out of a frightening situation and back on the road. Sergeant Dunn, I appreciate you sending help, and Trooper Melhorn, I appreciate you coming to our rescue. It is good to know there are still Troopers like you. Thanks again.

Linda Lott

I would like to thank all of our Troopers for their good work in keeping roads safe.

Recently, I had an encounter with Trooper Robert Greer on Highway 11 East in Greene County. I am 47 years old and have only had to pull my license out twice in my life. I was breaking the law on Sunday, December 7, and this was pointed out to me by Trooper Greer. I was issued a written warning, but more importantly, I was reminded of the men and women of the THP who risk their lives every day to keep our highways safe. I know I will not be breaking any more laws, because of the disrespect this would bring our Troopers.

Also, I think Trooper Greer is a big asset to the Tennessee Troopers for his professionalism and courtesy. Thank you.

William Church
Telford, Tennessee

I want to thank Trooper Billy Collins for his help on November 18, on Highway 153. My manager had gotten ill on her way to her doctor’s office. We called for an ambulance. I went to stay with her until the ambulance arrived. Trooper Collins helped me move her car to a safe place. Also, he made sure that I made it safely back to mine. He was very courteous and helpful. You are fortunate to have him on your force.

Pat Walker,
Bank Teller, Regions Bank

Please accept this letter to acknowledge the wonderful service and attitude of Sameka Wilburn.

Your location is always full of people needing miscellaneous license processing done. Stress is the order of the day for those looking for processing, and the employees trying to take care of the people.

Sameka was like a breath of fresh air on the day I came out to your department to take a driving test. What a pleasure it was to deal with her that day. She was VERY busy, but she took care of me and others with a cheery attitude and a beautiful smile on her face. She is to be commended for the way she handles her job.

Please thank her again for me. I told her I was going to send a letter about how great she was, but I bet she did not believe me. But here it is! Often, we only complain when things go wrong, but I want to let it be known that she helped my day go right!

Carol Dickinson
Cordova, Tennessee

I received a call earlier today from Linda Cone, calling from the Jackson office. She arranged an appointment time for my mother to meet with Amy Crews at the newly-opened Walnut Grove office in Memphis to secure a State ID.

I cannot express how grateful I am for the help that Ms. Crews and Ms. Cone provided. Ms. Cone is an exemplary representative for the State. She identified with our situation and could not have been nicer in her approach to finding a solution. It’s very refreshing to know that are people who still care. I sincerely appreciate Ms. Cone’s professional and compassionate demeanor. The State of Tennessee is very fortunate to have her.

Again, let me express my thanks to both Ms. Crews and Ms. Cone for their assistance in this matter.

Thank you.

Linda Tannen

An anonymous caller wanted to express his appreciation to Frieda Cameron for taking the time to explain the requirements to him. He said that she was very informative, polite, courteous and professional. “Very superb.”

Anonymous Caller

For several years, I have visited the branch office of the Tennessee Department of Safety in Farragut, Tennessee. This has been my location of choice whenever my daughter and I have had business to transact, whether renewing our licenses or completing the necessary paperwork for a gun permit.

I occurs to me as a public official that most of us are all too quick to contact someone whenever we are displeased about any particular experience. It is quite unfortunate that folks do not react just as quickly or have a kind word to say about those public employees we encounter while conducting our personal business. I am very fortunate to have an excellent staff and wanted to take this opportunity to let you know that you have an equally wonderful staff at the Farragut branch office in Knox County. In fact, the clerk with whom I spoke made my experience not only an efficient one, despite the office being positively overrun with local citizenry, but she made it fun, as well. That is quite an accomplishment and a compliment to her. The African-American clerk who waited on me knew her job perfectly and was cheerful, funny and helpful. It is no understatement to say that she made my own experience a delight, and I appreciate it and felt you should know it.

Your staff deserves accolades for being not only industrious, but cheerful, which is something as all too often folks can be grumpy and impatient while waiting. I have long believed most public employees are an asset to their employers— the taxpayers, and your staff are truly an asset to your department. I hope you will share my sentiments with your staff at Farragut. I wish all of you the happiest of holidays!

Catherine F. Quist,
Knox County Circuit, Civil Sessions and Juvenile Court Clerk

To: Driver Improvement Hearing Officer Eugene Smith

Thank you for the wake-up call we received in the hearing this afternoon. Not only did you get my daughter’s attention, but you also got mine. We left Foster Avenue this afternoon resolving to be better, more focused, and responsible drivers. You conducted the proceedings in a brisk and professional way that left no doubt in my daughter’s mind that the matter at hand was serious and that is what every teenager needs in abundance. You have your demeanor and your job nailed—that is a good thing for all of us.

With best regards,
Lou Ann Brown

Our church group was recently returning from a Senior Adult Conference in Gatlinburg when our bus broke down on I-75 near Athens. We did not know anyone locally to call for help, so we called the THP. Within a few minutes, Trooper Soto came to our rescue. He actually checked our bus to see if he might be able to make some temporary fix of our water leakage, so we would not have to be towed. When the inspection revealed the water pump was the culprit, he went to the trouble to make contact with the First Baptist Church of Athens, whose staff sent their church bus and got it to a nearby repair shop. After getting these things taken care of, he said that he was getting off duty in an hour, but he gave us his personal cell number in the event we needed any further assistance. Furthermore, he had taken my cell number and made a personal phone call to me the following day to ensure we had indeed made it home safely. Trooper Soto made our breakdown much less of an inconvenience than it could have been. His professionalism and personal concern so impressed us that we wanted to express our sincere appreciation.

Stan G. Proctor,
Pastor, Grace Chapel

I want to let you know about the great service Trooper David Hill recently provided to my in-laws. On Friday, October 3, my in-laws were traveling from Hattiesburg, Mississippi, to our home in Franklin, when they had a blowout about 40 miles south of Franklin. My father-in-law was able to get to the shoulder of the road and was preparing to change the tire when Trooper Hill came upon the scene. Unfortunately, the tire that needed to be changed was on the outside nearest to the interstate lanes of traffic. He was thankful Trooper Hill stopped so the presence of his vehicle would encourage some vehicles to merge left. Not only did he make the scene safer, but he actually changed the tire. My father-in-law told us repeatedly all weekend how nice Trooper Hill was to them. My father-in-law is very comfortable changing a tire and very familiar with the hazards of interstate driving. For over 38 years, he was a fuel truck driver for Exxon, but something “extra” special stood out to him about Trooper Hill.

Thank you for the service you provide to our communities. I know Trooper Hill did what may seem ordinary, but we know that he took a big risk changing the tire so close to interstate lanes of traffic. We really appreciate the respect and professionalism Trooper Hill demonstrated.

Ruth Smith
Franklin, Tennessee

I would like to say a big “Thank you” to Trooper Cory Russell. We were involved in a serious car accident on July 12, in Townsend. Trooper Russell was very concerned and helped to keep us calm. He showed concern when others did not. You should feel proud to have him as part of your work family. I keep him in my prayers every night. I thank God for his good heart. Please tell him “Thank you” and “God bless.”

My husband had his wallet stolen on October 15, and through all of the chaos of canceling credit cards and such, I went onto your website and was able to order the duplicate very easily. Also, I was able to print a temporary license. My husband was able to drive to work, knowing this temporary paper in his pocket would suffice until the Driver License replacement arrived. He had no fear of being stopped and not having his license with him.

I want to thank you very much for thinking of such a wonderful solution to a bad day. The ability to order a new license online is great! My husband did not have to lose work time to go into the office to have it replaced.

Thanks again,
Norman and Dorothy Slover
Jellico, Tennessee

To: Tennessee Highway Patrol

Dear Commander,

On October 6, 2008, my car quit at the 124 mile marker on S-75 on my way home from work.

We are new to the Knoxville area and do not know many people.  While I waited for my husband to come from downtown Knoxville, I was beginning to get a little unnerved to say the least.  That is when Trooper Scott pulled up behind me.

We would like you to be aware of the extremely professional, calming presence of your officer.  He stayed with us until the car was removed and even called for assistance when our original towing company called (after waiting twenty-five minutes) to say they could not find a driver.

We have numerous friends in law enforcement and it seems the average citizen can only find time to complain. We just wanted to take a minute of your time to let you know that, in our opinion, Trooper Scott is one of Tennessee’s finest.  Please thank him again for us.

God Bless you and your men as you keep watch over East Tennessee.

Sincerely,

Christine Culler

To: Tennessee Highway Patrol
From: The Tennessee District Attorneys General Conference
Re: Lieutenant John Albertson and Trooper Allan Brenneis

On behalf of the District Attorneys General Conference, we would like to thank you, Lieutenant Albertson and Trooper Brenneis, for taking the time from your busy schedule to assist with the Vehicular Homicide Workshop in Gatlinburg from August 19 – 21. Your participation was a key ingredient in making the workshop a success.

Through the feedback that we received, both from the evaluations and the students themselves, the crash scene was a huge success. We appreciate you withstanding the heat of the day to assist the students with valuable information concerning a crash scene. With your assistance, we were able to provide the students with essential information. Attendee evaluations from the workshop indicated that they were appreciative of the information presented and the opportunity to share experiences and ideas.

Again, thank you for supporting the training program and for your willingness to share your knowledge with others who will benefit from it. We look forward to working with you again.

Sincerely,
Tom Kimball and Jim Camp
Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutors

To: Driver Services Division

I wanted to advise you of the superb service that I received at your Driver Licensing Center on Cherokee Boulevard in Chattanooga.  While everyone was very helpful, Ms. Donna Blair-Evans went above and beyond to help my son get his driver license dilemma resolved and his driver license reinstated.  I have been to the station at Bonnie Oaks many times over my 25 years living here, but the Cherokee Boulevard location, and especially Ms. Evans, were just outstanding. 

Again, thank you for the service you provide, and please let Ms. Evans know of my pleasure with her service.

Donald A. Gorman, Jr.

To:  Driver Services

I just wanted to let you know that your Oakland Driver Testing Center has got to be the most pleasant experience you can possibly have while getting or renewing your Driver License.

All of the employees there are so friendly and efficient.  It is a rare treat to have such a good experience while taking care of licensing issues.  All of the employees there make the experience very pleasant. All of your employees should be as friendly, courteous and helpful as the ones at your Oakland Center. They are truly an asset.

Thank you.
Kelly Lacey

I am writing to thank the Tennessee Highway Patrol for the outstanding service and professionalism that it provided to my family in a time of great crisis. In particular, I want to acknowledge the exemplary leadership, dedication, and sensitivity displayed by Captain Vic Donoho.

Specifically, on February 7, 2008, my sister and her family (husband and children) were tragically killed in a multi-car accident on Highway 57 in Lafayette, Tennessee. From the time that I was notified as next-of-kin in St. John’s County, Florida, Captain Donoho was immediately and readily available to speak with out family, explain the circumstances of the accident, and answer any and all of our many questions. Not only did he address our questions thoroughly, but he did so with utmost respect, sensitivity and concern for our well-being, sincere empathy, and without sensationalism. Captain Donoho’s efforts on behalf of our family were tireless. From working at the scene, to being my first point of contact with the authorities in Tennessee in the middle of the night, to being on site upon our arrival in Lafayette the following day, throughout our time there, and since…Captain Donoho remained a constant, steady, and trusted authority and has become a dear family friend.

On behalf of our entire family, I extend my sincere gratitude to the Tennessee Highway Patrol and especially Captain Donoho. 

Sincerely,
Suzanne Graham
St. Johns, Florida

To: Colonel Mike Walker

I would like to extend my thanks to you and Captain Don Nicholson for allowing Trooper Steve Sakarapanee to come and share his knowledge and talents with my students at Sunset Middle School.  They were overwhelmed with excitement, enthusiasm and gratitude during and after the visit.  He was prepared with lessons and aligned them perfectly with the State of Tennessee math and science standards and classroom lessons our students have recently learned.

Trooper Sakarapanee openly answered a wide array of questions, easily demonstrating how math and science skills are used every day in his position as an officer.  He was able to bring home the importance of learning and developing specific concepts to make them real to my students.

I applaud his efforts and eagerness in sharing with my students.

Thank you again,

Jewel Coleman
Sunset Middle School
Brentwood, Tennessee

To: Commissioner Dave Mitchell
From: Senator Andy Berke
Re: Bonny Oaks Driver License Station

Recently, I renewed my Tennessee driver license at the Bonny Oaks facility here in Chattanooga. Because of some statements that were made by others in the Senate Transportation Committee meetings, I wanted to renew my license in person rather than over the Internet.

When I arrived, I found a staff that was professional, hard-working and dedicated to serving the public. Although many were nice enough to know who I am and to speak to me about Nashville, I also saw the employees interact kindly and warmly with other individuals at the station. I left the facility with renewed confidence in your department and especially, the Chattanooga branch.

I hope you will pass along this commendation to your Chattanooga employees, as the employees deserve the praise. 

It is always a pleasure working with you.

Sincerely,
Senator Andy Berke

To: Captain Chip Miller
From: Colonel Clayton M. Hutmacher, U.S. Army

Thank you so much for joining us for our 2008 Regiment Family Safety Day. Our Family Safety Day is an opportunity for us to entertain our soldiers and their families while we educate them in a wide variety of safety-related topics. Safety is important to us as we seek to preserve our most precious resource — our selfless patriots who choose to serve others.

Your participation was key to making his year’s event the very best we have conducted thus far. I believe our Safety Day would rival any similar event in government or industry.

Your contributions to our effort were significant in making it such a tremendous success. On behalf of the 3,000-plus Night Stalkers who attended this year, thank you! We hope you will join us again next year as we work toward making it even better.

Sincerely,
Colonel Clayton M. Hutmacher, U.S. Army

To: Tennessee Highway Patrol

I am writing to commend one of your officers for the superb assistance he gave to me on June 22.  The officer was Trooper Curly Jackson.

My vehicle became disabled at 2:30 p.m.  I pulled over to the side of the interstate, because initially, I could not reach my husband by phone.  Also, I was close to Exit 11 and feared someone would rear-end me.  I called for aid.  Trooper Jackson responded within minutes and was professional in every way.  He performed above and beyond his duty.  Once I was finally able to reach my husband, he waited for him to arrive.  Also, he called a wrecker service for us; one that he knew would be reputable.  He stayed on-site until my car was loaded and made sure that we got off the interstate safely.

While waiting for my husband and wrecker to arrive, I learned what a caring person Trooper Jackson is.  He stated to me that he felt he needed to make a difference every day. He certainly made a difference for me as I have never, in all my 35-plus years of driving, ever broken down on the road.  He was concerned for me due to the heat, and he invited me to sit in the back of his air-conditioned car.

Due to the nature of his job, good deeds are seldom recognized.  Therefore, I would like to request that this letter go into his file to show what an outstanding individual he is.  Truly, this gentleman is a shining example of his profession.  Regardless of the unfortunate circumstances, I am so very glad to have had the opportunity to meet him.

Carolyn Ferrell
Clarksville, Tennessee

I am a 70-year grandmother who knows and recognizes goodness when I see it. I am writing regarding one of your employees, Sheree Tubbs.

On May 3, my driver license, along with some other cards, was lost. A friend informed me that I could secure a duplicate at the Driver License Center. I called and Ms. Tubbs answered the phone. She was very helpful and very kind, a delightful lady with a kind voice. I expressed to her that I would like to meet her, not really expecting to, because I realize that places, such as these, can become very busy.

My friend drove me there. I signed in, took a number and waited patiently for my turn. My number was called, and guess what, Ms. Tubbs was at the window. What a pleasant surprise. Ms. Tubbs treated me well; she was very professional, knowledgeable and helpful to me. She is to be commended for presenting such a positive reflection of TDOS.

Please let her know how much I appreciate her assistance.
Clementine Spencer

To:  Deputy Commissioner Greta Dajani,

I just wanted to send a word of praise for the online DL system.  I lost my wallet with my driver’s license in it on May 11th in between here and San Diego.  I got online and ordered a replacement.  When I got home on May 17th it was waiting for me in my mail box.  WOW!  I was impressed.  I didn’t even have to print out the confirmation and carry it around.

Thanks so much,

Lee Ann Smith
Nashville, TN

To:  Tennessee Highway Patrol

I offer my commendation and appreciation to Sergeant Derrick Watson, Trooper Kelly Smith and Lieutenant Don Baird for their assistance during a recent arrest.  On April 8, the U.S. Bank in Florence was robbed by an individual who threatened he had a weapon.  The suspect was identified that evening and robbery warrants were issued.

Several days later, we were notified that the suspect was in the Knoxville area, planning to return to I-75.  Our investigators contacted Sgt. Watson to advise him of this information.  Also, we had advised that the suspect was probably armed.  As a result of Sgt. Watson’s coordination, THP Troopers were able to apprehend the suspect quickly and without incident.

Please express my appreciation to the THP.  Their efforts resulted in a potentially dangerous suspect being arrested, preventing him from committing any further violence.

Thomas Szurlinski
Florence, Kentucky Police Chief

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

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 )