Dwight Thomas- Father, friend, hero

To the editor:

The Sept. 24 article regarding my father, Dwight Thomas, was brought to my attention through a friend who did not appreciate the tone of the article. I would like to know why this negative style of journalism was included in an obituary article. Some of the unproven rumors that were mentioned were painful and a slap in the face to my father's friends, family and memory. I do not believe our feelings were considered.

On a positive note, Dwight Thomas worked for 20 years for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. He was chosen National Police Officer of the Month in 1968. James E. Harmon, chief special investigator for the ATF in St. Louis, said, "Dwight Thomas exemplifies the hundreds of dedicated officers who serve in dangerous and usually unsung assignments as agents of the Treasury Department. I have observed his investigative work over the years, and I am pleased at his having been selected as National Police Officer of the Month."

Richard A. Dier, U.S. attorney for the Nebraska district, said, "Because of my position as prosecuting attorney for the federal government, I have been in a position to observe the excellent investigative work of Dwight Thomas and his men. I am pleased and proud that he is being given the recognition he deserves by being selected National Police Officer of the Month."

This is how Dwight Thomas' friends and family remember him and his character.

For Dwight Thomas, father, friend and hero, all my love from a grateful son,

CLAY THOMAS, Cape Girardeau