Farewell To James Arness, A.k. Marshal Matt Dillon
Posted: Saturday, June 04, 2011
by John Waddey
firstcenturychristian
They buried my old friend James Arness this week. Although I never met him in person, he was a regular guest in my home for well over a quarter century. He came dressed as Marshal Matt Dillon of Dodge City, Kansas. Dillon was truly an American icon. From 1955-1975 he kept Dodge City safe for the good citizens thereof. From that time to the present his star continued to shine on cable TV.
Arness’ Gunsmoke series was wholesome, decent, entertaining, non-corrupting and enduring. As Matt Dillon he was a dependable man of honor, courage and service as he protected the good citizens of Dodge City from the bad guys. He was kind and sympathetic and willing to place himself between the law-abiding citizens and the outlaws.
Arness gave us great shows without foul language, sex, nudity and racial antipathy. Kids who watched Gunsmoke learned there is a difference between good and evil and that goodness should always win. They saw humor without vileness. Arness was just as decent in his private life as on the screen. It seems today’s script writers and actors don’t know much about such things.
As Marshall Dillon rides away into the sunset, I salute him and those who created his role for a job well done. He left the world a little better than he found it.
John Waddey
12630 W. Foxfire Dr.
Sun City West, AZ 85375
Ph. 623-214-3715
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Top-level comments on this article: (2 total)Well said, I agree. It was wholesome entertainment with a mild positive message. People who watched it regularly were more than likely better off.
My wife and I were discussing the same thing last evening. The guy was big and strong, fitting his part extremely well, and his writers kept morality in it's proper perspectinve. I'm told he was a close friend with John Wayne. Both were a credit to their profession. Excellent article.
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