The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Public Safety Commission (PSC) held a meeting in Austin to honor several individuals for their exemplary service. The awards were presented by DPS Director Steven McCraw, who praised the honorees for their dedication to public safety.
Director McCraw stated, “It is a privilege to be able to honor the exceptional dedication and courage displayed by these outstanding members of our department and community. Their commitment to public safety and service exemplifies the highest standard of excellence. They truly understand the importance of safety in our communities and across our state.”
Among those recognized was Staff Sergeant Mina Gadelkarim from the Texas Rangers Special Operations Group. He received the Director’s Citation for his role in resolving a hostage situation on January 23, 2022. Gadelkarim's precise action saved a woman taken hostage after a police pursuit ended with an armed suspect barricading himself in her home.
Trooper Paul Bickerstaff was awarded the Lifesaving Award, while Fire Marshal Patrick Dooley received the Director’s Award for rescuing a woman trapped on top of a submerged vehicle during Tropical Storm Beryl on July 8, 2024.
Trooper Billy Castro earned a Lifesaving Award for his quick response on July 12, 2024, when he applied a tourniquet to stop severe bleeding from an intoxicated woman's arm.
Trooper Armando Hernandez Jr. was also honored with a Lifesaving Award following his decisive actions during a vehicle pursuit on March 6, 2024. His application of first aid and translation skills helped save an injured individual at the scene.
On April 16, 2024, Trooper Steven Olivares provided critical assistance following an ambulance accident involving a semi-truck. His prompt application of medical aid earned him another Lifesaving Award.
Corporal Brandon Tidmore received recognition for saving a woman swept downriver in El Paso on May 30, 2024. His ingenuity in using weighted rescue equipment led to her successful retrieval from dangerous waters.
Additionally, the DPS Honor Guard and Drill Team were acknowledged with a Unit Citation for their performances at national competitions in Washington D.C., bringing honor to Texas through their disciplined routines.
