Austin News

The Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC) recently held a meeting at DPS Headquarters in Austin where several heroic actions were recognized by DPS Director Steven McCraw and the commissioners.

Director McCraw commended the awardees, stating, “The men and women recognized here today embody the Texas Department of Public Safety motto: courtesy, service, protection. I am honored to recognize the courage and commitment of these awardees who have stepped up in service of their fellow Texans. Texas is safer—and brighter—because of them.”

Among the awardees was Trooper Lyndon Johnson (Plano) who received the prestigious DPS Purple Heart for his bravery and sacrifice during a tragic incident on June 12, 2022.

In another instance, Texas Ranger Special Response Team (SRT) Staff Sergeants Matthew Davenport, Justyn Knowlton, and Tyler Lewis were awarded the Lifesaving Award for their quick actions that saved a life during a drug overdose incident on April 19, 2023.

Special Agent Henry Schultz was also recognized with a Lifesaving Award for his diligent work in rescuing a missing juvenile in Florida, while Trooper Aaron Doyle received the same award for his timely response to a vehicle crash on September 23, 2023.

Furthermore, Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Lieutenant Daniel Martinez, and Special Agents Benjamin Crowley and Carlos Molina were commended for their swift response to an overdose situation, saving a life in the process.

Sergeant Ted Riojas was awarded for his quick thinking and actions that prevented a significant blood loss in a crash victim on December 6, 2023, and Trooper Alex Shelton received recognition for performing the Heimlich Maneuver on an elderly man in distress on December 7, 2023.

Lastly, Special Operations Staff Sergeant Juan Lopez was acknowledged for his bravery in rescuing migrants from a vehicle in the Rio Grande River on February 9, 2024.

The awards ceremony concluded with the presentation of a Unit Citation to an unspecified unit for an outstanding accomplishment.

The actions of these individuals highlight the dedication and commitment of DPS personnel in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.