I am a retired Vietnam veteran sergeant first class, and my wife of 43 years Waltraud -- we call her Traudel -- and our family have made Lampasas our home since 1975.

I did sin and in December 2006 I turned myself in to the police for what I had done, as I wanted to pay for what I had done and also get right with God. Also, I did not fight what I had done in court.

I came to prison in July 2007, and my wife and I have lost a lot of friends because of what I did. I still have one true friend, Bobby Brown, who writes me, and that is a blessing. Also, he helps my wife and son.

Most of our friends turned their back on Traudel, and that is so sad as she is a wonderful woman. Also, she has done no wrong. She is sick now, cannot clean her home or do a lot of the things she used to do and has no one to help her in that.

I ask that Lampasas forgive me as I do want to come back home. But please don’t take what I did out on Traudel!

I know the Lord Jesus Christ and God is using me here at the Lynaugh Unit at Fort Stockton. Also I want to do God’s will when I come home. I’m sorry I hurt anyone!

Lampasas has a lot to be proud about, and the people care and do help each other, and yes, Jesus Christ is in our town. I miss all of you. God bless you.

Ralph W. Hatchell