Texas DPS Honors Veterans Across the Agency on Veteran's Day

AUSTIN, TX — The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) honored more than 2,100 veterans across the agency on Veterans Day, recognizing their continued service and commitment to protecting Texans after serving their country.

“Our veterans exemplify the very best of our department and our state,” said DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin. “They have answered the call to serve — first in defense of our nation and now in the protection of our communities. We are deeply grateful for their sacrifice, leadership, and continued service to this state.”

DPS currently employs 2,168 veterans, representing every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. Their distribution includes:

• U.S. Army: 935

• U.S. Marine Corps: 496

• U.S. Navy: 217

• U.S. Air Force: 184

• Army National Guard: 160

• Marine Reserve: 23

• Army Reserve: 25

• Air National Guard: 20

• U.S. Coast Guard: 17

• Texas State Guard: 9

• Air Force Reserve: 7

• Coast Guard Reserve: 1

Both commissioned and noncommissioned veterans serve in a range of DPS roles — from law enforcement and emergency response to technology and administrative support. Their military experience continues to strengthen DPS operations through leadership, discipline, and a shared commitment to public service.

“To every veteran or active-duty service member considering their next chapter, I encourage you to look at the Texas Department of Public Safety,” said Chief of the Training Operations Division Derek Prestridge. “DPS offers an opportunity to continue a life of service with purpose. The skills, discipline, and leadership developed in the military translate directly to what we do here. We’re proud to have so many veterans in our ranks, and welcome those preparing to transition out of the military to join our team and continue service in a new and rewarding way.”

DPS continues to recruit veterans interested in joining upcoming academy classes. More information about career opportunities can be found at joinDPS.com.

The department extended its gratitude to all veterans, thanking them for their unwavering service and dedication to both the nation and the state of Texas.