In a ceremony held in Austin, Governor Greg Abbott took the stage to commend the efforts of Director Steve McCraw of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). McCraw, praised for his years of service, has led the agency for 15 years and wraps up a career spanning over four decades. The outgoing director was honored alongside the latest graduates of DPS Recruit Class A-2024, according to a statement by the Governor's office.
"It has been an honor to work with Director Steve McCraw. He is a leader, visionary, and the quintessential lawman that Texas is so famous for," Governor Abbott told attendees. In front of the 101 new graduates, including 36 military veterans and 16 women, he reasserted the importance of their roles. "DPS troopers are often the first on the scene at major emergencies, saving lives. As you take your oath today as DPS troopers, you have answered a higher calling to protect and serve our state—and all who call it home," Abbott said, poised amid state officials and law enforcement dignitaries.
The graduation celebrated the completion of a rigorous 30-week training program by the class, which Governor Abbott addressed, while acknowledging Director McCraw's contributions to both the state and the agency's success. The new graduates boast a diverse array of talents with 45 of them being bilingual, set to report to their respective duty stations on September 15.
Noteworthy attendees at the ceremony included the Texas Public Safety Commission Chairman Steven P. Mach, alongside commissioners and state law enforcement officials, according to the Governor's office. With McCraw's departure and the ushering in of the new recruits, DPS approaches an era marked by change and the continued pursuit of public safety. As Texas weathers evolving challenges, the state positions its newest officers, ingrained with the legacy and counsel of Director McCraw, to helm the front lines, maintaining order and offering service in the vast expanse we call Texas.
