The public outpouring of love for slain Richmond County Sheriff’s Deputy James D. Paugh, and support for the law enforcement community, has had a profound effect on me and many other police officers. It was an incredible showing, and has given the law enforcement community a renewed sense of purpose.

I know it has helped lessen a terrible blow to his family. J.D.’s death was untimely, sad and tragic. Was it a waste? No. J.D. stood and fought when a lesser man would have fled. At least one person and perhaps more are alive today who might not have been.

The entire law enforcement community has seen a public that loves and supports them! We needed that, and I personally want to thank every person who attended the funeral and lined the streets for J.D. You have performed a service to us that was more important than you will ever know.

Greg Smith

Grovetown

(The writer is a Columbia County sheriff’s deputy.)