Corporal Madeleno Lee Gonzales

February 12, 2021

On December 9, 2020, the fuel pump on my 3 year-old car suddenly stopped working. My husband and I pulled over on the shoulder to attempt to address the problem. While we were sitting out in the grass beside this fast-moving, 2-lane highway, DPS Corporal Lee Gonzales passed by on his way back to Abilene from Austin. He saw us, turned around and came back to check on us. During that entire frustrating experience, Trooper Gonzales stayed with us, was most congenial, never seemed rushed or irritated by the situation, and even helped write down information I was being given over the phone. He did not leave until we were safely on our way in the tow truck. His presence during this entire episode was re-assuring, and of course everyone coming over the hill slowed down when they saw the DPS vehicle, which also contributed to our safety! Trooper Gonzales' actions were a perfect illustration of the many courteous services public employees render to the rest of us without expecting thanks or extra compensation. As two senior citizens who benefited significantly from the service rendered by this DPS employee, we wish to say thank you and commend Trooper Gonzales for his patient and kind assistance in our time of need.