AUSTIN – With a 1958 patrol car and a SWAT vehicle gracing the south steps of the Capitol, Sen. Donna Campbell took time on Monday to recognize the employees of the Department of Public Safety and honor 190 years of the agency’s commitment to maintaining law and order in Texas. The resolution was signed by the full Texas Senate.

“DPS agents, employees, and troopers serve and protect Texans every day, putting their lives on the line for our safety. Honoring their efforts on the Senate Floor is a small gesture compared to the sacrifice they make to keep Texas safe. It is my privilege to recognize April 29, 2013 as DPS Day at the State Capitol,” Sen. Campbell said.

DPS Director Steven McCraw and Cynthia Leon, Chair of the Public Safety Commission, were both on hand to receive the honor, as well as Cheryl MacBride, David Baker, and Gary Albus, the regional commander based in San Antonio. A companion resolution was sponsored by Rep. Geren in the House.

“For nearly 200 years, our department has been committed to protecting and serving Texans, and to this day, that mission continues to guide everything we do,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “We are grateful to Sen. Campbell, Rep. Geren and the Texas Legislature for recognizing the contributions and unwavering commitment of the men and women of DPS throughout the years. This is an honor that belongs to the thousands of hardworking DPS employees, troopers, agents and Rangers – past and present.”

The agency combats crime and terrorism and manages emergency responses in addition to its state highway and public safety duties. DPS was originally founded as the Texas Rangers almost two centuries ago and had a key role in recovery efforts in West, Texas.

###

Senator Donna Campbell represents Senate District 25 which includes all or parts of Bexar, Comal, Guadalupe, Hays, Kendall and Travis counties. She is a practicing emergency room physician who lives in New Braunfels with her husband and the youngest of their four daughters.