At a recent Public Safety Commission (PSC) meeting in Austin, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) recognized the acts of heroism performed by several individuals. Colonel Freeman F. Martin and PSC Commissioners awarded two Director’s Citations and four Lifesaving Awards for extraordinary service.

Colonel Freeman F. Martin commended the honorees, stating, “We’re proud to recognize these individuals who demonstrated extraordinary commitment to serving others. Their selfless actions—whether from within our agency or beyond—represent the very best of public service and remind us of the powerful impact one person can make.”

The recipients of the Director’s Citation include Lieutenant Pilot Wilfred "B.J." Blanchard from San Antonio. On September 14, 2024, he helped evacuate a burning aircraft at a local airport, saving several lives.

Trooper Jeffrey Galindo, along with off-duty Officer Gerardo Chaidez and Mr. Mark Strickland, received recognition for their prompt response to a motorcycle accident on July 27, 2024, in Mitchell County. Their collective efforts, including the application of tourniquets, were vital in saving a motorcyclist’s life.

Special Agents Mario "Tony" Aranda, Jose Garcia, and Mark Jackson were awarded the Lifesaving Award for their actions on June 29, 2024. They aided two dehydrated women near Santa Teresa, New Mexico, stabilizing and transporting them to safety.

On November 24, 2024, Trooper Cody Helms was acknowledged for attending to a man injured in a feral hog attack, providing crucial first aid until emergency services arrived.

Finally, Trooper Joshua Nance acted decisively on November 29, 2024, when he witnessed a shooting while on vacation in North Little Rock, Arkansas. He applied a makeshift tourniquet to stop bleeding from a gunshot wound, effectively saving the victim.

The DPS awards honor actions that embody the service and dedication public safety requires.