Gov. Perry Announces Star of Texas Awards

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today announced that nominations are currently being accepted for Star of Texas awards to honor those Texans who made profound sacrifices while performing their duties as peace officers, firefighters and emergency medical first responders.

“The Star of Texas Awards recognize the important work that peace officers, firefighters and emergency medical services personnel perform everyday and they honor our first responders for the sacrifices they have made in the line of duty,” Perry said.

One individual from each category of first responders (peace officers, firefighters, emergency medical service personnel) will be chosen to represent the commitment and sacrifice involved in sustaining a serious injury or the loss of life in the line of duty. Selections will be made by three separate advisory committees, one for each category of first responder, who will provide recommendations for the final selections. The advisory committees are appointed by the Governor.

In 2003, the 78th Texas Legislature passed House Bill 9 to create Texas First Responders Day and House Bill 1937, which created the Star of Texas Awards. September 11th of every year is designated as Texas First Responders Day and is the day that the Governor will present the Star of Texas Awards for each category of first responders.

Nominations for each category of first responder may be submitted until July 7th of each year to be considered for that year’s award. To nominate an individual for a Star of Texas Award, please visit the Governor’s website at http://www.governor.state.tx.us/divisions/cjd/awards/TexasStarAward/

Read about: Star of Texas Award Advisory Committee