Texas DPS Honors Officers and Citizens for Heroism and Lifesaving Actions

Public Safety Commission and DPS Colonel recognize exceptional service and bravery at first meeting of 2026

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Public Safety Commission (PSC) recognized the service of several Texans at the first PSC meeting of 2026, presenting awards for exceptional performance, investigative excellence, and heroic lifesaving actions.

Why it matters

These awards highlight the dedication and courage of DPS officers and citizens who go above and beyond to protect and serve their communities. The recognition of their actions helps build public trust and appreciation for the critical role law enforcement plays in keeping Texans safe.

The details

At the meeting, PSC Commissioners and DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin presented two William P. Clements Excellence Awards, one Director's Citation, five Director's Awards, and five Lifesaving Awards. The honorees were recognized for their decades of investigative work, acts of bravery that saved lives, and decisive responses to life-threatening emergencies.

  • The first PSC meeting of 2026 was held earlier this month.
  • The awards recognized actions that took place throughout 2025.

The players

Freeman F. Martin

Colonel of the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Kristy Link

Crime Laboratory Division employee who has served in numerous roles and made an extraordinary impact on forensic science in Texas over the last two decades.

Laura Simmons

A Texas Ranger who has led numerous high-profile investigations and is a respected mentor who has shaped the next generation of Texas Rangers.

Michael Mathes

A Special Agent with the Houston office who displayed extraordinary courage and lifesaving skill during a high-risk fugitive apprehension operation.

Jeffrey Tyner

A citizen who witnessed a suspect fleeing from police, tackled the suspect, and restrained him until troopers arrived.

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What they’re saying

“The men and women recognized yesterday exemplify what it means to protect and serve Texas. From decades of investigative excellence to acts of extraordinary bravery that saved lives, these individuals embody our core values of integrity, excellence, accountability and teamwork. Their dedication, courage and compassion make Texas safer every day, and we are proud to recognize their service.”

— Freeman F. Martin, Colonel, Texas Department of Public Safety (myparistexas.com)

What’s next

The Public Safety Commission and DPS will continue to recognize exceptional service and heroism throughout the year, with the next awards ceremony scheduled for the summer of 2026.

The takeaway

These awards demonstrate the unwavering commitment of DPS officers and Texas citizens to public safety. Their actions, whether through years of dedicated service or in moments of crisis, have made a tangible difference in the lives of their fellow Texans and serve as an inspiration for others to follow in their footsteps.