Legal immigrants welcome to U.S.

Dear Editor:
After reading the initial article concerning Circuit Court Judge Dale Young, I without any reservation, will hereby offer my personal opinion concerning this matter. First, let me state that I firmly believe that all persons, regardless of what country he/she originates from, are without hesitation welcome in this great country. Remember that with the exception of the Native American Indian we are here because our forefathers had a vision about all people being created equal in a country of democracy. I have no compassion for any person who is in this country illegally and expects to receive all the benefits and privileges afforded to all citizens.
The proud citizens of the United States of America must abide by the rules and regulations set forth by our government over the last 230 years. If we fail to follow this process, we are subject to be corrected by the legal process of our judicial system. I do take issue with any individuals being here illegally and do not speak our accepted language, which we refer to as English. I also take issue with not paying your fair share of taxes as each citizen is required to do. If and when I decide to make a trip, for instance to south of the United States Border, I would probably find, without doubt, that English would be placed on every business and product in that country as Spanish is in the USA.
It is strange to me that we have people from all over the world that have gone through the process to become a citizen, learn to speak our language, and be proud to have the opportunity to be a real American. The question of whether or not one is entitled to legal process is a mute issue. I believe that this is set out in the Constitution but in this situation all the facts are not in as of this time and only one side is being heard. If these individuals are so concerned with being mistreated, why not try to do the right thing to make some attempt to become a citizen. Therefore this would never become an issue. I deeply believe that this country is very special place because it is where everyone wants to immigrate to.
Enough said about that! Now let me get to what really infuriates me. I was for 36 years a member of law enforcement - 32 of those years as a member of the Tennessee Highway Patrol. I have known the Honorable and Respected Judge Dale Young for approximately 30 years of my chosen career and have been in his court many times. I also have the pleasure of him being my friend. Today I still address him as “Your Honor” whether in a casual or business conversation. I can never recall using his given name throughout those many years. I do this because of the sincere and deepest respect I carry for him both as a person and judge.
In contrast to what was stated regarding his demeanor, I know Your Honor to be the kindest, most courteous, respectful, truthful, gentle, honest, caring, soft-spoken, compassionate, and professional individual that I have ever known. I have even been one of those whom he has let know in his own polite manner, that my demeanor would not be tolerated in his court. We are blessed in this county to have, in my opinion, the finest judges that I have ever been associated with and admire each and every one.
At the time of this writing, Your Honor has not responded to this issue and I can’t say that I blame him. This also enhances my stance on the type of individual he is. When all the facts are in I am positive, without any doubt, that at the proper time Your Honor will issue a statement concerning the matter in question. I deeply support Your Honor in this matter and will continue to do so without any hesitation. Being a true citizen of the United States I have that right and no one can take it away. Thanks Your Honor for being the person you are and May God Bless!
Finally, if your desire is to be in the United States of America and expect to be treated with respect, why not try the legal way and strive to become a full fledged American and do your part to help our country to remain the greatest in the world while still being proud of your true heritage. At that point in time I can then respect your issues a little more.
Respectfully,
Sgt. R. L. Dowdy
Tennessee Highway Patrol, Retired
3709 Holston College Road
Louisville, TN 37777