Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott presented awards to peace officers, firefighters, and first responders at the 2025 Star Of Texas Awards ceremony in Austin. The event recognized individuals for their service and sacrifice in their respective roles.

"What you all do for the State of Texas is incomparable," said Governor Abbott. "It is rightful that we gather on this day of remembrance to recognize not only what happened on September 11, 2001, but also to recognize the ongoing ways in which our first responders stand up for our communities. This year, we honor 28 remarkable Texans who demonstrated incredible heroism in the line of duty. They are a shining example of the very best of the Lone Star State. May God bless you and watch over you, and may God forever bless the great state of Texas."

During his speech, Governor Abbott highlighted the importance of educating Americans about the events of September 11, 2001. He paid tribute to those who lost their lives serving others on that day and acknowledged the continued dedication shown by first responders across Texas.

The ceremony was attended by First Lady Cecilia Abbott; Texas Department of Public Safety Colonel Freeman Martin; Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd; Senator Cesar Blanco; Senator Joan Huffman; Representative Andy Hopper; Representative Donna Howard; Representative Brent Money; Representative Angelia Orr; Representative David Spiller; Judge David Schenck from the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals Place 1; and other state and local officials.

The Star Of Texas Awards were established in 2003 through House Bill 1937 to honor peace officers, firefighters, and emergency medical first responders who have made significant commitments while performing their duties. The same legislation designated September 11 each year as Texas First Responders Day.

This year’s recipients include Morgan Layne Powell (Amarillo Police Department), Tanner Lucas Cilento (Austin Police Department), Gabriel Charles Fells (Beaumont Police Department), Sheena Dae Yarbrough-Powell (Beaumont Police Department), Jesus Vargas (Brazoria County Sheriff's Office), John Alexander Hampton (Dallas Fire Department), Darron L. Burks (Dallas Police Department), Nathaniel Wayne Chapman (Dallas Police Department), Jamie Corey Loven Farmer (Dallas Police Department), Karissa Kayla Groman (Dallas Police Department), Kayla Rayuen Jones (Dallas Police Department), Brandon Dwayne Turner (Danbury Police Department), Abel G. Sanchez (Ector County Sheriff's Office), Jason Daniel Bulman (Fort Worth Police Department), Billy Wayne Randolph (Fort Worth Police Department), Cooper Steven Dawson (Greenville Police Department), Armando Esqueda (Harris County Sheriff's Office), Kevin D'Wayne Cordell (Hill County Constable's Office), Lemuel Delray Bruce Jr. (Houston Fire Department), Edward G. Escamilla (Houston Fire Department), Marcelo Garcia III (Houston Fire Department), Johnathan J. Guzman (Houston Fire Department), Darren D. Jones (Houston Fire Department), Chris DeWayne Reger (Jack County Sheriff's Office), Chelsey R. Rose (Pecos County Sheriff's Office), Corey S. Rogers (San Antonio Police Department), Curtis L. Dees (Stephenville Police Department) and Todd N. Tipton (Tarrant County Sheriff's Office).

Additional photos from the ceremony will be provided when available.