Gov. Abbott Tells DPS Graduates 'What You Do Matters'

AUSTIN, TX – Governor Abbott delivered the keynote address to the largest graduating class in the history of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) on Friday. During his remarks, Governor Abbott congratulated the graduating members of the DPS A-2021 class and thanked them for their service to the Lone Star State.

"Texas is exceptional because of the people who call our state home, and it is your fellow Texans that you have sworn to protect and serve as you join the most elite state law enforcement agency in the nation," said Governor Abbott. "On behalf of the Lone Star State, we are so grateful for your sacrifice and commitment to serving your communities. You will face challenges along the way, but never forget that what you do matters. It matters to the over 29 million Texans who depend on you every single day to keep our communities safe. And I have no doubt that after today, our state will be made safer by the brave men and women in this room." 

Among the 145 new Texas State Troopers are 40 U.S. military veterans, 22 with prior law enforcement experience, and the most women as DPS recruits in state history.