Dawe family offers tribute to the Chief

News

Thursday, 28 May 2020 11:39

Special to The Clarion
Contributions by Dawe Family

Scottsboro Police Chief Ralph Dawe was recently honored at a Scottsboro City Council meeting in recognition of his 31 years of service to the community as a law enforcement officer. Dawe is nearing his retirement from the force, and his family had this to say in response to his long career.

Dawe’s wife of 40 years, Roxanne, wrote, “To the man who has kept us safe for 31 years, I thank you. I thank you for being the most loving husband and father to our children. For being at their games and school functions even if for a few minutes to show you care and support them. For leading them back when they sometimes went astray and doing it in a strict but loving way. For dealing with all the horrors of the job and never letting us see your pain. Thank you for all those families you had to comfort when they lost a loved one, then coming home and loving your family that much more. Thank you for keeping our community safe with your undying dedication and professionalism. I am so proud to call you husband. Enjoy your “retirement” and know in my heart you will always be my Chief, and I will always be your mischief. Love you, always and forever.”

His son, Ralph “R.W.” Dawe, IV stated, “To say my father is a great man is truly an understatement. He is the purest form of a “man’s man.” The man who all other men idolize and hope to one day stack-up against. The man who, when he weighs in on an issue, other men stop to listen. Throughout his entire life, my father has taken qualities like diligence, dedication and integrity to a higher standard. As a kid, I always wanted to make my father proud and follow in his footsteps in law enforcement, despite him suggesting I become a firefighter instead. He knew a career in law enforcement was a tough one and required a lot of hard work – something he’d rather not wish upon his son. I am now near my 20th year serving in some form of law enforcement function, and I owe most of my success to my father, the best example any man could ever attempt to emulate. Thank you for your prestigious service, Dad. Rest assured, we’ve got it from here, Chief!”

Child number two, Chantel, self-titled The Favorite, writes, “Being a cop’s child isn’t as easy or fun as it looks. Growing up there was always a chance that, “Dad couldn’t make it,” or that he would get called away. It was understood, and it was accepted. Holidays, birthdays, school functions or dinner, we knew our dad had a responsibility, but not one time did we feel neglected. When he had to leave we had a routine of crowding around him at the door with hugs and kisses and “don’t get hurt.” Dad has always taught us “family first,” “family will always be here” and “you be there for your family.” He didn’t just teach us that; he lived it. In my eyes, he’s as close to perfection as you can get. He’s dedicated, strong, wise, sentimental, honest, selfless, courageous, open minded… the list goes on! I have always strived to instill those qualities into my children as my parents did with us. As an adult, I’ve watched him not just “serve and protect” but really take pride into building a great community. He has treated this community as an extension of his family. He takes on all the stress of daily trials and tribulations and has exceeded expectations of making improvements where need be. He has proved the meaning of OHANA. My dad has done a lot of great things in his life, and to hear people talk about the respect they have for him as a person, as a chief, as a father, as a husband and as a grandpa makes me so proud to call him my dad. Thank you for all you do for everyone! I don’t know where I’d be without you! Congrats, Dad! We still got your six!”

Their third child, Denise, writes, “Growing up with a police officer for a dad has its ups and downs, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. Family is everything, which is the most important thing my dad instilled in all of us. We grew up with the mindset that we take care of each other no matter what. My dad has forever been a family man, all while serving and protecting. I can’t even fathom the pressure it takes to uphold such honor and dignity. Even though there were times he was called out, we always knew he’d much rather be with his family. The long nights, holidays and weekends were often spent wondering if our dad would make it home safely. We always understood the sacrifices and his desire to help others. As an adult, you realize and understand the magnitude of your parents’ love. You have children of your own and think, “How did my parents do this? With four kids?” Their love for each other and their family radiates through our lives each day, especially through their grandchildren. You honestly think your parents can’t get any better, then you, in complete amazement, watch them with your children.
I cannot count the times I’ve called him to help in whatever situation I’m in, whether it’s fixing a leaky pipe, taking me to the doctor, timing my contractions, building a fence – literally anything us kids need – he’s there. People often say, “Once you get to know him, he’s a cool guy!” Yes, my dad is a reserved man. A brave policeman, a thoughtful son, a caring brother, a fun uncle, a devoted husband, a loving father, a sweet grandfather. All while serving and protecting. He’s our voice of reason, our wise teacher. Not only am I thankful to know him, but I’m also thankful that he’s our family. Our protector.”

From Taylor, the youngest, “As long as I can remember, my dad has always been in service to others. Growing up as “the police chief’s daughter” was not always easy but it was an experience I wouldn’t trade for the world. If you know my dad well, you know he wears many hats. He’s a contractor, an electrician, a plumber, a mechanic, a painter, a traveler, a teacher, and the list really is endless. He truly can – and does – do it all. But most of all he is hardworking, selfless and the foundation in all of our lives. He has served his community with unwavering rectitude and with a humble heart. A true family man who always puts his family first but also had to go on tough calls, work long nights and weekends and holidays. He did this because he has a heart to help others, which I truly believe is instilled in every single one of us. He served in the line of duty for 31 years, and he did it with such unquestionable integrity, dedication and honor. I couldn’t be more proud to be his daughter, and I am so happy to watch him start this new chapter in his life. No one deserves it more than him. Congratulations, Dad! I love you!”

From a thankful community, thank you, Chief Ralph Dawe and God bless.