Governor Greg Abbott announced on Mar. 26 that nominations are now open for the 2026 Star of Texas Awards, which recognize peace officers, firefighters, emergency medical first responders, and federal law enforcement personnel who have been seriously injured or killed in the line of duty. Nominations must be submitted to the Office of the Governor by June 15, 2026.
The awards aim to honor individuals who have shown courage and dedication while serving their communities. The recognition also extends to private citizens who were seriously injured or killed while helping a peace officer, firefighter, or emergency medical first responder during their duties if the incident occurred between September 1, 2003 and June 15, 2026.
“The Star of Texas Award honors the courage and bravery of our peace officers, firefighters, and first responders who have risked their lives to protect their fellow Texans,” said Governor Abbott. “These community heroes have dedicated their lives to a higher purpose and selflessly serve our great state every single day. We thank them for their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to Texans.”
According to the official website, Governor Abbott has led efforts that contributed to Texas leading the nation in job growth and record employment levels since his election in 2014. The Office maintains its primary offices in Austin at the State Insurance Building according to official information. TIME recognized Abbott as one of its “100 Most Influential People” in 2024 according to official records.
The Office focuses on several priorities including job creation, economic opportunities, education enhancement, protection of individual liberties, parental empowerment in schooling decisions, and southern border security according to its website. Services are delivered statewide under Governor Abbott’s leadership according to official information.
Nominations for this award can be submitted online through resources provided by the governor’s office.
