The Office of Gov. Greg Abbott recently presented the Star of Texas award to multiple Texas State Troopers, recognizing extraordinary sacrifice in the line of duty.
The award is the state’s highest honor presented to first responders and private citizens who are seriously injured or killed while assisting in an emergency.
Among those honored were fallen Trooper Jerry Adamick Jr., who lost his life on Sept. 15, 2025, when his patrol vehicle left the roadway and struck a tree while he was responding to a shots fired call, and Trooper Derrick Waters, who was seriously injured on Sept. 27, 2024, after being struck by an intoxicated driver while conducting a traffic stop.
Their service, sacrifice and commitment to protecting the people of Texas will never be forgotten. We honor them, their families and all those who continue to serve with courage and dedication.
Trooper Adamick will never be forgotten. Trooper Waters’ strength and perseverance are a powerful reminder of the dangers our first responders face every day.
Their sacrifice represents the very meaning of service above self.
