Since 2003, The Star of Texas Award has highlighted the men and women first responders who have made the ultimate sacrifice by the giving of their lives or have been seriously injured in the performance of their duties as a first responder.  On September 10, 2021, in Austin, Texas, 46 first responders were honored for their selfless acts of bravery and heroism with The Star of Texas Award presented to them by Governor Gregg Abbott.  Amongst those honored were Dallas’own Officer David Coffie, Senior Corporal James Farmer, Officer Mitchell Penton and Officer Frederick Rubin.  Through their sacrifices, these officers have personified the oath of the law enforcement profession: “To protect and serve.”

Officer David Coffie receiving his Star of Texas Award.

Senior Corporal James Farmer receiving his Star of Texas Award.

The family of fallen officer, Mitchell Penton receiving his Star of Texas Award.

Officer Frederick Rubin receiving his Star of Texas Award.

On February 18, 2021, Officer David Coffie was seriously injured in the line of duty while responding to a shooting in a residential neighborhood.  Officer Coffie has protected and served the citizens of Dallas for 14 years.

On August 13, 2021, Senior Corporal James Farmer was seriously injured in the line of duty after being struck by a train. Senior Corporal Farmer has protected and served the citizens of Dallas for 16 years.

On February 13, 2021, Officer Mitchell Penton gave his life in the line of duty after being struck by an intoxicated driver while investigating an accident.  Officer Penton protected and served the citizens of Dallas for 2 years.

On February 18, 2021, Officer Frederick Rubin was seriously injured in the line of duty responding to a shooting in a residential neighborhood.  Officer Rubin has protected and served the citizens of Dallas for 32 years.

Members of the Dallas Police Command Staff pose with Dallas Police Star of Texas Award recipients and their families.

Governor Gregg Abbott giving his keynote address.

Cash, the son of fallen officer Mitchell Penton, shows off the Star of Texas in honor of his father.

Dallas Police Chief, Eddie Garcia, greets Governor Gregg Abbott with a handshake.

During his keynote address, Governor Abbott expressed, “As long as we do have people who in service put their lives on the line to save the lives of others and to make the community safer and better, we will always step up and recognize the heroism that is so incredibly unique among our true Texas heroes. To serve as a first responder, is to answer the highest public calling. It means putting yourself between danger and the people that you serve. It requires exceptional courage, dedication and commitment. Our first responders represent the very best of what it means to be a Texan.”  The Dallas Police Department is unified in thought with Governor Abbott as we all celebrate and honor these brave Texas heroes.