In a solemn ceremony in Austin, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has inaugurated a new Fallen Officers Memorial and display. This permanent installation stands as tribute to the service members who have lost their lives in the line of duty, dedicating their all to protect and serve their fellow Texans, as reported by the DPS.
The annual Peace Officers Memorial Service, an enduring tradition, aims to deeply honor the fallen heroes of the DPS. Amidst this reflective gathering, Texas Governor Greg Abbott and other dignitaries joined to remember the brave. "It is an honor to dedicate this important memorial to the brave DPS officers who have lost their lives serving the people of Texas," Governor Abbott told the DPS. "Today, we unveil a special memorial to every DPS officer and Texas Ranger who has made the ultimate sacrifice for Texas."
The memorial features an intricately designed 77-foot circle of Texas pink granite and a poignant 11-foot-tall bronze statue, with the details outlined by the DPS. It is anchored by a tombstone bearing the name of Ranger Moses Smith Hornsby, the first fallen peace officer in Texas, symbolizing the historical depth of the sacrifices made. Surrounding the centerpiece are granite and bronze panels narrating the department's history and the names of all 242 DPS personnel who have given their lives in the line of duty.
Bringing the vision of this memorial to fruition was made possible through generous public donations amounting to $2.4 million, as mentioned by Steven McCraw, DPS Director. "The new Fallen Officers Memorial reminds us of the daily risks taken in this profession," McCraw told DPS. "I thank Texas Ranger 2023, the Texas Ranger Association Foundation, the Texas Department of Public Safety Foundation, and the people of Texas whose donations made this beautiful memorial possible."
The main lobby of the DPS Headquarters now also bears witness to a new memorial display, showcasing individual plaques and photos of each of the fallen officers and non-commissioned employees, ensuring a personal remembrance within the public domain. Visitors and families can now find a space for reflection and gratitude towards those who swore to uphold safety and order, only to pay the ultimate price.
For more information on the Fallen Officers Memorial and display, and to read more about the honored tradition of the Peace Officers Memorial Service, visit the official DPS news release.
