Texas Gov. Greg Abbott gave the keynote address and honored fallen officers over the weekend during the Texas Peace Officers’ Memorial Ceremony in Austin.
This event is held every year and is meant to honor Texas soldiers who died in the line of duty, featuring a candlelight vigil and a ceremony that is attended by many families of the officers who died.
Law enforcement officers from across the state traveled to attend this event, in which the governor awarded the Texas Medal of Honor to a family member of each of the 40 officers honored at the ceremony.
Abbott gave the keynote address at this event and thanked the families of the fallen officers, saying that they “served together as families” and provided support for “those who wear the badge.”
“To all the law enforcement officers, I share with you the eternal gratitude that Texas has for your brave and tireless service,” said Abbott in his speech, according to a news release from his office.
“In Texas, we support our law enforcement officers, especially those whose bravery and valor led to the ultimate sacrifice. This Peace Officers Memorial is far more than just a granite monument—it is a reminder of Texas heroes taken too soon. Even though these courageous men and women we honor are no longer with us, they are never gone. Texas will always remain grateful for their valor.”
In addition to Abbott and the families of the officers who were honored, multiple other officials from the Lone Star State attended the event.
Senator Brian Birdwell, Senator Sarah Eckhart, Senator Bob Hall, Senator Adam Hinojosa, Senator Mayes Middleton, Representative Brooks Landgraf, Representative Janie Lopez, Representative Brent Money, Representative Terri Leo Wilson, Ellis County Sheriff Brad Norman, Combined Law Enforcement Association of Texas President Scott Leeton, Texas Municipal Police Association President Ken Gardner, and Texas Fraternal Order of Police President Clint McNear each attended the ceremony, according to Abbott’s news release.