FEDERAL AGENTS DESERVE THANKS, NOT CRITICISM

                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: THURSDAY, March 25, 1993                   TAG: 9303250593
SECTION: EDITORIAL                    PAGE: A-14   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short
FEDERAL AGENTS DESERVE THANKS, NOT CRITICISM
THE UNFORTUNATE incident in Waco, Texas, has prompted many, the news media included, to criticize the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. This is a fine organization with highly trained and dedicated personnel. Each day these agents put their lives on the line to protect the public against nuts like this demented, freak cult leader who says he talks to God. The only thing more idiotic than him is the poor dupes who believe his bull.
I have served my country and community for 40 years - two hitches in the Marine Corps and 32 years as a police officer. I have worked closely with all federal enforcement agencies, and I can honestly say that none are more professional than the bureau's agents. It is easy to sit back and criticize when something goes wrong. Talk is cheap, and everyone makes mistakes.
A few years ago, the Roanoke Police Department was criticized by a so-called task force that referred to us as a bunch of racist Rambos. Not one city official came to our defense, and I still have a bitter taste deep inside because of it. So far, I have not heard one government official speak out to defend and support the bureau.
There is a small group of dedicated people in this world known as police officers, whether local, state or federal. A small segment who protect the majority. This is how it is, has always been and always will be. So when you arm-chair generals go to sleep at night, think about it. They are out there to protect and defend our way of life. Let's remember the four agents who made the supreme sacrifice in Waco, Texas. JERRY D. RICE SR. ROANOKE

by Archana Subramaniam by CNB