News Summary
The Texas Department of Public Safety held its annual Peace Officers Memorial Service, honoring officers lost in the line of duty. The ceremony included tributes to fallen officers, notably Trooper Kevin Ramirez Vasquez, and featured speeches by Governor Greg Abbott and DPS officials. Attendees reflected on the sacrifices of law enforcement, highlighting community support for families of fallen personnel. This year marked the second service held at the new memorial dedicated to DPS personnel, emphasizing the continued commitment to honor those who served Texas.
Austin
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) held its annual Peace Officers Memorial Service on May 20, honoring officers and employees who have lost their lives in the line of duty. This year’s ceremony took place in front of the newly established memorial featuring pink granite and bronze, commemorating the sacrifices made by law enforcement personnel.
This year marked only the second year the memorial service was held at the monument, which honors the 243 names of DPS personnel who have died since the early 19th century, including the recent addition of Trooper Kevin Ramirez Vasquez, the 241st officer to lose his life on duty. Trooper Vasquez died on September 17, 2024, after being struck by a vehicle while investigating a traffic crash. His family, along with relatives of other fallen officers, participated in the solemn event.
Among the attendees was Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who served as the special guest speaker. Abbott emphasized the challenges and dangers associated with the responsibilities of DPS Troopers, highlighting their unwavering commitment to protect and serve the community. Public Safety Commission (PSC) Chairman Steven Mach also addressed attendees, recognizing the dedication and sacrifices of DPS personnel during the memorial service.
The event featured a ceremonial prayer led by Captain Joe Millhouse, invoking a call for divine protection and comfort for active troopers and their families. The service included a traditional 21-gun salute and a procession around the memorial site, allowing attendees to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have dedicated their lives to public service.
DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin remarked on the significance of honoring fallen officers, acknowledging not only their heroism but also the enduring grief experienced by their families. The memorial stands as a permanent tribute to the bravery demonstrated by officers throughout Texas history, a list of which is available on the DPS website, documenting the names of all officers who have served since the inception of the Texas Rangers in 1823.
The memorial service in Austin serves as a reminder of the risks associated with law enforcement and the ongoing support needed for families who have lost loved ones in the line of duty. Amid the mixed emotions of grief and inspiration felt by attendees, the annual service remains a vital occasion for honoring and remembering the sacrifices made by those who have served Texas with distinction.
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Additional Resources
- CBS Austin
- Wikipedia: Texas
- News Channel 6 Now
- Google Search: Texas Peace Officers Memorial
- San Angelo Live
- Google Scholar: Peace Officers Memorial
- Dallas Express
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Law Enforcement
- KRIS TV
- Google News: Peace Officers Memorial Day
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