Gene Autry

Until Friday, Oct. 2, my generation never awoke without seeing, hearing or somehow sensing the gift of Gene Autry. From the 10-cent movies and serials, “Melody Ranch” on radio, his TV shows, his 36 years as the 26th Angel, to his cowboy and holiday songs, he has always been our father figure and “champion.”

We know that when he gallops into Heaven’s Gate Corral singing “Rudolph,” there will be thousands of good guys in white hats to greet him with a giant guitar.

MICHAEL A. GLUECK

Newport Beach

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Several years ago I saw Autry sitting in the lobby of a local hotel. I thanked him for the wonderful childhood memories I had of watching his films in the late ‘40s at the Hitching Post theater in Hollywood. When I mentioned I worked in documentary films, he proceeded to graciously question me about what films I had made, my interests, etc.

In the numerous times I’ve been around “celebrities,” Autry is the only one kind enough to show an interest in me as a person. I’ll never forget this thoughtful gesture from my childhood hero.

JOHN HOLMSTROM

Hollywood

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On reading Autry’s “Cowboy Code” (Oct. 3), two thoughts occurred to me:

First, Autry’s code summarizes generally accepted guiding principles for self-conduct in a civil society.

Second, when tested against the code, President Clinton’s conduct does not come close to measuring up.

DONALD A. YUNKER

Westlake Village