Governor Greg Abbott has just named Stephen “Steve” Eck, a seasoned fire captain and paramedic from Fort Worth, to the Firefighters' Star of Texas Award Advisory Committee, a role he'll carry indefinitely at the governor's discretion. This committee plays a vital part in steering the governor's decisions surrounding the annual honors that recognize firefighters who have suffered grave injuries in the line of duty as well as the families of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Eck brings to the committee his extensive background from the City of Arlington Fire Department coupled with his leadership as vice president of the Arlington Professional Firefighters; his ties with the International Association of Firefighters and his ongoing service as a captain and paramedic with the Eagle Mountain Volunteer Fire Department corroborate his dedication and experience to the firefighting community, this according to a news release issued by the Governor's office yesterday.
The Firefighters' Star of Texas Award, which Eck will now have a hand in overseeing, has been pivotal in acknowledging the bravery and harrowing experiences of Texas firefighters, aiming to honor those who have borne the brunt of perilous service and the families left to shoulder the weight of loss.
With his appointment, Eck is expected to leverage his firsthand understanding of the perils and challenges of fire service as he advises on the design and presentation of the award — a symbol of distinction acknowledging the rugged path firefighters walk and the noble, oftentimes grim, realities they confront in safeguarding the lives and properties of Texans, as highlighted in the official announcement.
