The Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, Nov. 7, paid tribute to local first responders during its First Responder Luncheon at the Cleveland Civic Center, with a special event that honored the dedication and service of those who protect Liberty County communities. Attendees gathered to recognize the brave men and women who work tirelessly to ensure public safety.
The guest speaker for the luncheon was Texas Ranger Josh Benson, who provided an insightful overview of the Texas Rangers and their storied history. Benson detailed the organization’s origins, which date back to 1823, when Stephen F. Austin founded the Rangers to protect the 600-700 colonist families who had ventured to Texas. This founding predates both Texas’ independence from Mexico, declared on March 2, 1836, and its statehood, achieved on Dec. 29, 1845.
Initially, the Rangers were a “minutemen” force responding directly to threats against settlers from Native American tribes and bandits. Over time, the Texas Rangers evolved into a formal law enforcement organization, solidifying their role as a policing body by the turn of the 20th century.
Benson also spoke about the Special Response Team (SRT), a specialized division within the Texas Rangers’ operations. There are six SRTs across the state, and Benson is a member of one of these elite teams. The SRT is a component of the Texas Rangers’ Special Operations Group, equipped to handle high-risk situations, from counter-terrorism to critical incidents.
The Chamber’s luncheon served not only as an occasion to honor the legacy of the Texas Rangers but also to show gratitude for the ongoing commitment of Liberty County’s first responders. Awards were given to the following first responders:
- Greg Rodriguez, Liberty County Pct. 4 deputy constable, Deputy of the Year
- Hugh Bishop, Liberty County Pct. 3 deputy constable, School Resource Officer of the Year
- Gilbert “Doc” Sykes, Tarkington Volunteer Fire Department, Firefighter of the Year
- Monique Brooks, Liberty County DA’s Office, Officer of the Year
- Michelle St. Julian, Liberty County DA’s Office, Investigator of the Year
- Jake Kelly, Cleveland Police Department, Chief’s Commendation
- Joseph Autry, Plum Grove Fire Department, Firefighter of the Year
- Cpl. Nathaniel Godfrey, Texas DPS, Outstanding Service
- Tyler Head, Dayton Police Department, Teamwork Award
- Branson McDonald, Cleveland Fire Department, Outstanding Service
- Lt. Jacob Watson, Cleveland Fire Department, Outstanding Service
- Randall Walter, Pct. 6 deputy constable, Leadership Award
Guests at the luncheon were treated to pulled pork sandwiches made by West Smith and desserts made by Alexia McCulloch and Bluebonnet News.
