ASSOCIATION FOUNDATION NEWSLETTER www.thetexasrangers.org • March 2015 • Issue 10 SEAL/Astronaut Cassidy June reunion, golf to speak at reunion dinner schedule is coming A schedule of events for By Bill Hartman the Annual Reunion Weekend, WACO (Sp) — Retired honoring retired and active Rangers, and information on and guests are in for a the Friday golf tournament treat on Saturday night will be completed in the next during the annual several weeks and mailed to all Retired Rangers Reunion retired and active Rangers, plus Weekend June 19-20, Benefactors and other patrons sponsored by the Texas and friends of the Texas Ranger Ranger Association Association Foundation. Foundation. The Reunion Weekend is The guest speaker June 19-20 in Waco. Friday night will be U.S. Navy Captain is when all retired Rangers are Christopher “Chris” singled out. This year, rather Cassidy, only the second than honor an individual SEAL/Astronaut to deploy retired Ranger, all Rangers who to Afghanistan, and later, were involved with the Branch fly missions into space for Davidian Siege investigation at our country. Mount Carmel in 1993 will be He has made two highlighted. trips to the International Last year’s golf tournament Space Station, one for was played with temporary a two-week delivery greens, and the report this year of equipment and is the new greens are in excellent additional scientific shape, and rolling where you hit gear, and a second for them. six months when he Saturday night’s speaker is represented the U.S. and U.S. Navy Captain Chris Cassidy, traveled with two Soviet SEAL/Astronaut Captain Chris Casssidy who in 10 years duty as a Navy cosmonauts. SEAL served four six-month Both trips he was delivered aboard the Russian spacecraft Soyuz. Part of his assignments in Afghanistan, pre-flight assignment for the six-month stay with the cosmonauts was to learn in the Persian Gulf and in the Russian. On both trips he also participated in multiple experimental space walks Mediterranean. outside the ISS facility. The last 10 years he has been He became the 500th person in space and is the second SEAL to fly in space, on active duty as a U.S. Astronaut, following Commander William Shepherd, a veteran of four previous missions. and has been to the International Cassidy is a native of Maine and graduated from the Naval Academy Preparatory Space Station twice, once for two School in Newport, R.I. He then received a bachelor of science in mathematics from weeks, and once for six months. Astronaut continued page 6 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015 TRAF nominates new officers New officers for the Texasto Granite in 1978, and began Spindletop International and met her Ranger Association Foundation were purchasing newspapers. He and his first Texas Rangers, Captains Grady nominated at the annual winter wife Macy live in Sessums and Dan North. meeting, and barring unforeseen San Angelo and She is now executive director changes, will take office at the Annual have a blended of Spindletop International, Inc., a Reunion Weekend celebration June marriage with charity representing companies in the 19-20 in Waco. four children, oil and gas industry supporting various Jim Chionsini is serving as interim sons James and youth organizations. Spindletop has chairman after replacing Danny J.T., daughters also been a longtime supporter of Chandler, who resigned for personal Jennifer and TRAF. reasons in mid-December. Brandi and 10 In 2000, then Company A Captain Chionsini will begin a two-year grandchildren. Earl Pearson nominated Constance term as chairman in June. Other Jim has been Jim Chionsini to the TRAF board. In 2003 she was new officers are Constance White of on the TRAF selected chairman of the scholarship , vice-chairman; Tom Schleier board 10 years and on the executive committee, of Seguin, secretary; and David Wilson committee six years. Former Ranger which she still of Ozona, treasurer. Gary Crawford Chief Kirby Dendy sponsored Jim heads, and she rounds out the executive committee to become a has been on as the immediate past chairman. Benefactor as the executive The new chairman is a longtime well as a board committee the newspaper publisher and owner and member. past two years as is chairman of Granite Publications, Constance secretary. L.L.C., which publishes 24 semi-weekly is a native of Schleier and weekly newspapers in Texas. Roswell, N.M. is president Jim grew up in LaMarque and a graduate of Thomas W. Tom Schleier and began his newspaper career at of the University Schleier and the Galveston Daily News in 1970, of Arkansas. She Associates, a land services company following a stint in the U.S. Navy. moved to Texas Constance for oil and gas exploration. He’s been He started a forerunner company in 1982 to join White Officers continued page 10 H ‘Texas Ranger Classic’ — TRAF sporting clays shoot May 29 In lieu of a 2015 gala, the Texas Ranger Association Shooting Association and the National Sporting Clays Foundation is scheduling regional fund-raising activities, Association. The facility has five sporting clay courses and beginning with a May 29 “Texas Ranger Classic” sporting is capable of handling a large number of shooters. clays shoot at the National Shooting Complex on the It is the second largest venue in the and northwest side of San Antonio. is a great attraction for both shooters and non-shooters Tom Schleier of Seguin, the incoming TRAF secretary, is who have never seen a competition. the director in charge of the event. In addition to approval A schedule of entry fees, including four-man teams, by TRAF, the shooting event has been given the green is being compiled, as well as costs for sponsorships for light by Major Chance Collins of Company F and Ranger individuals and corporations. Chief Randy Prince. A meal will be served following the competition. Former Chief Hank Whitman and directors Jerry A flyer with all the details is being put together and Wellborn and Dave Wilson are also assisting Schleier. will be mailed to the entire TRAF mailing list within the The complex is the headquarters for the National Skeet next three weeks.

Page 2 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015 Gray McWhorter is a TRAF original (Editor’s note: This is the Rite (32nd KCCH) and Hella second in a series highlighting Shrine Temple. directors of the Texas Ranger His interest in the Association Foundation. The Texas Rangers didn’t really background is compiled and start in 1976, but rather written by Liz Myrick and Bill as a teenager, when he Hartman.) began to study the history of the country’s oldest law Gray McWhorter, a enforcement agency. “I’m veteran member of the happy to say I’ve given many Texas Ranger Association talks to civic organizations Foundation board of about the history of the directors, places great worth Rangers, whom I consider on character traits he looks the finest law officers in the for in others. state, country and world.” “I value a person who Gray’s favorite reason tries to help his fellow man for being a member of the and his family in everyday foundation has been his life, who has a happy fellowship with people who Christian attitude and who share his same interest and has the ability to listen fast Gray McWhorter who believe in the history, but be slow to get angry,” honor and dignity of our Gray said. from 1976 to 2015, 39 years. Texas Pharmacy Association state law enforcement. A financial supporter McWhorter received a Outstanding Representative “Every Texas Ranger of the Texas Rangers since MS degree in geology from of the Year. I have known has been a 1976, McWhorter was an Baylor University, and after Don’t ask Gray what pleasure in my life, and the organizing director. He graduation went to work for he does in his spare time, TRAF directors and what served as chairman from General American Oil Co. in because his calendar is they stand for have certainly 2001 to 2003 and has been . awfully tight. impacted my life,” he said. on the executive, nominating Soon after going to In addition to his TRAF Gray doesn’t have family and gift committees and work in Dallas, he married service, he is vice-president members who have been presently is on the historical Miss Ann McMillen in 1960. of Camp and Upshur or are Rangers, but “some committee. The McWhorters have County Ambulance Service of my best friends have He’s a native of been married 54 years, and in Pittsburgh, is on the been, including Captain M.T. Winnsboro, lived in Dallas have a daughter Ranee James Whatley Board of the Gonzaullas, Captain Bob 35 years and moved to Kendrick and her husband, Northeast Texas Community Mitchell, Frank Kemp, Glenn Pittsburg in 1998 where he John, who live in Fort Worth. College in Mount Pleasant Elliott and Max Womack.” and wife Ann call home. Ann and Gray have two and serves on the board When asked what he Gray said he began grandsons, Brett and Drew of the Northeast Texas tells potential Benefactors, assisting a Texas Ranger Kendrick, who live in Forney Rural Heritage Museum in McWhorter said, “Outside and his wife in 1976. When and Rowlette, respectively. Pittsburg. of church and family, the TRAF was organized in Gray left the oil business Also, he is a director of TRAF is one of the finest 1982, he was nominated by and went to work for Wyeth the Leesburg Cemetery in organizations anyone could Captain G.W. Burks, Glenn Pharmaceutical, serving as a Winnsboro, a past chairman join. Elliott and Charlie Moore to territory representative and of the trustee committee Everybody has a touch become the first director in retiring after 35 years. and staff parish committee of ‘’ in their lives and Company B. During that career he of the First United Methodist they would be proud to be a Counting his time was selected for the A.H. Church in Pittsburg and is member of our foundation.” working with the Ranger Robins Regional President a 59-year member of the family, he’s been involved Award and also selected Masonic Lodge, Scottish McWhorter continued page 14 Page 3 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015 Interim Chairman’s Report – Talent, friendships run deep in TRAF By Jim Chionsini how can you afford to help a worthy staring at me. TRAF Interim Chairman project or a person in need? That was To be the lead person, responsible I’ve volunteered before I became so intimately involved for an organization which serves the for a position I’ve with the Texas Ranger Association Texas Rangers, gave me pause for worry preached about not Foundation and the Texas Rangers it and concern. Someone even used the doing for more years serves. word daunting, which I suppose means than I can remember. About 11 or 12 years ago, Captain scary. I’ve always Kirby Dendy invited me to become a However, when I evaluated the encouraged TRAF Benefactor. A few years later, he strengths of the TRAF board, what our company’s asked if I’d agree to serve on the board the directors bring to the table, their employees to work of directors. commitment to this fine organization, Jim Chionsini on community Eventually, I was asked to be a the backing of the Ranger leaders committees, even member of the executive committee and TRAF’s mission, my fears began head them, and volunteer time and and readily consented without really subsiding and a desire to continue money to worthy charities and military knowing what was required. As the the tradition so many have worked for needs. years eased by, I moved up the ladder strengthened my commitment. But I wasn’t so sure about non- and my palms began sweating. Once again I realized what a great profit organizations. I was always It was great fun and rewarding to and humbling experience it has been to taught you needed to make money to work on the sidelines for leaders such work around and for the Texas Rangers. have a successful operation. as Benny Vanecek, Bubba Hudson, I consider it an honor just to be a I remember a book written some Steve Sikes, Gary Crawford and Danny member of TRAF, let alone the chairman. years ago about small newspapers Chandler. The friendships I have made over entitled, “It Isn’t About the Money.” I kept thinking I still had plenty of the years and the wonderful rewards I was even asked if I wanted to write time to prepare for the top spot or find that come with this organization are a statement for the book’s back cover. someone better to step in and take my staggering. When I told the caller that newspapers position. To be around the men and women I had anything to do with had to Then, unexpectedly, Danny of TRAF and the Ranger organization make money, the phone went dead. resigned because of personal issues, is exhilarating. I’m going to give the If you don’t make a healthy profit, and the chairmanship (interim) was Chairman continued page 11 H Directors elevated to emeritus status Four longtime members of the board of directors of Chandler was to be chairman of the foundation through the Texas Ranger Association Foundation have retired June, but asked to be relieved of his duties due to matters from active duty on the board and elevated to “Director of a family medical nature in his personal life that needed Emeritus” status. focus. To attain emeritus status, a director must have served “All four of these men have sacrificed great amounts a minimum of 10 years. They maintain all privileges of the of time and energy to our organization,” interim chairman board except voting. They are invited to attend all board Jim Chionsini said. “We want them to know how much we and TRAF functions and voice their opinions as they like. appreciate them and the attention they paid to our Texas The new retirees are E.E. “Bubba” Hudson, Company Rangers and to TRAF.” A; Danny Chandler, Company B; Michael Lam, Company “We hope they know how serious we are in inviting F; and Tom Lacy, Company F. Hudson is from Houston, their participation in any and all future TRAF activities.” Chandler from Dallas, Lam from Gatesville and Lacy from The four retired directors will be honored and receive Waco. commemorative plaques at the June Texas Ranger Reunion Both Hudson and Chandler are past chairmen of TRAF. Weekend. Page 4 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015

JOE DILLARD (second from left) was high bidder for the Battleship Texas Commemorative Pistol at the Spindletop Charities Holiday auction. He’s with Company A Texas Rangers (l-r) Daron Parker, Major Jeff Collins and Shane Ellison. Proceeds were donated to the TRAF scholarship fund. Company A, Spindletop partner up to increase awareness, scholarships For several years, donated to TRAF in 2014. Company A Texas In the past five years, the Rangers and Spindletop organization’s auction has Charities, Inc. have raised more than $150,000 partnered to raise funds for TRAF scholarships for the Texas Ranger through the auction of Association Foundation special firearms. scholarship fund through Spindletop Charities, a high bid auction during Inc. is a non-profit in the annual Spindletop the oil and gas industry Holiday Ball. based in Houston, which In 2014, two firearms raises generous funds for were donated to the youth charities. auction; a Battleship In 2014 alone, Texas Commemorative Spindletop donated Model of the original more than $1.2 million to .45 caliber sidearm aid children. issued to USS Texas in The Texas Rangers 1911, and a Bond Arms also volunteer their time Derringer Pistol and Knife to provide security for commemorating the this formal event, which anniversary of the Texas is attended by more than LILLIAN GAITHER and her family made the high bid for the Texas Rang- Rangers. 350 oil and gas industry er Commemorative Derringer pistol and knife set at the Spindletop Through this auction, executives and their Holiday Ball auction in December. Proceeds went to the TRAF scholar- more than $28,000 was spouses. ship fund. Company A Ranger Jeff Owles helps show off the set. Page 5 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015 Executive Director’s report -- TRAF re-energized with goals, visions By Liz Myrick, TRAF Executive Director

We’ve just partnership 33 years ago, and all the we are working hard to develop the come away from hard work of those visionaries. infrastructure in our operations that the annual Winter With such a history, and an abiding will allow us to continue to make a Conference. I reverence for it, the future holds much difference. hope all left with promise. In looking towards the Finally, I would be remiss if I the same sense of future of TRAF, we endeavor to listen didn’t thank Danny Chandler for his Liz Myrick optimism that I’ve to the needs of the retired and active chairmanship since 2013. been hearing from Texas Rangers and guide our ship by I was personally blessed to have so many of the attendees. their star. had my basic training at TRAF under There was an extraordinarily The goals of TRAF are scholarships, his tutelage. He’s taught me many positive energy throughout the support and outreach for retired invaluable things about the Rangers weekend. With new leadership Rangers, the compassionate and this organization, and about life. within the Texas Rangers and changes emergency fund and education The generosity of Danny and within TRAF’s board, it was a great initiatives. his wife, Elizabeth, to TRAF has been opportunity to get better acquainted These goals require continuous virtually boundless and has often individually, and to revisit the genesis funding and support. This means gone under the radar, as is his style. and the merits of this long-standing expanding our donor base, diversifying And they have been especially kind to relationship. our fundraising efforts, and asking our me. In doing so, I heard expressed ongoing supporters to consider doing The timing in my life and the depth many times a deep appreciation of more to support the Texas Rangers. of this unique relationship make it one those who had the vision for this With deliberation and foresight, for which I could not be more grateful. H Astronaut cont. from page 1... the U.S. Naval Academy in after the Sept. 11, 2001 Zhawar Kili cave complex at to raise funds for the Special 1993. attacks on U.S. soil. the Afghan/Pakistan border Ops Warrior Foundation. Later, during a shore He served as ground and a second Bronze Star for This exceptional soldier- assignment with the force commander for combat leadership service athlete also finished near Navy, Chris also received a international and U.S.- in 2004 during Operation the top of his age division in master’s degree in ocean only combat missions in Enduring Freedom in 2014 in the famous Hawaiian engineering from the Afghanistan and led two Afghanistan. Iron Man Triathlon. Massachusetts Institute of months of non-compliant After 10 years as a On a more personal Technology in 2000. ship boardings in the SEAL, he was selected as note, Captain Cassidy has Upon joining the Navy, Persian Gulf. an astronaut candidate in a daughter who is a junior Chris graduated from As a naval commander, 2004. His first mission was at MIT as an engineering BUD/S (Basic Underwater he amassed over 200 hours in 2009, followed by his six- student, another daughter Demolition School) and underwater as a pilot- month stint at the space who’s a senior in high served 10 years active duty navigator commander station in 2013. school and a son who’s a with the Navy SEALS. of flooded submersibles, As a SEAL delivery sophomore in high school. He made four, six- which were launched vehicle Team Two Chris has additional month deployments, two to and retrieved from host commander, he ambitions as an astronaut, Afghanistan and two to the submarines. volunteered and completed one of which is going back Mediterranean Sea. Chris was awarded the a week-long, 180-mile into space in two or three He deployed to Bronze Star for leading charity kayak paddle from years “aboard a U.S.-built Afghanistan two weeks a 9-day operation at the Norfolk, Va., to Washington delivery spacecraft.”

Page 6 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015 Texas Rangers announce latest staff changes Since the last TRAF newsletter, there have been a number of Texas Ranger division changes announced by leadership at the Austin headquarters. • Lt. Jason Taylor (Company A Houston) has been promoted to Administrative Captain at Austin Headquarters. • Lt. Kip Westmoreland has been transferred from Company B Tyler to Company A Houston. • Lt. Kenneth Bond transferred from Company E Midland to Company B Tyler. • Ranger Scotty Shiver, Company A, was promoted to lieutenant, Company E in Midland in December. • Gregory Wilson has been promoted to the Texas Rangers and assigned to Company B Mount Pleasant. • Ranger Shane Ellison has transferred within Company A from Hempstead to Houston. • Ranger Jeff Owles transferred within Company A from Houston to Hempstead. • Ranger Ryan Christian transferred from Company D Corpus Christi to Company A Houston. • Ranger Rolando Villarreal Jr. transferred within Company D from Harlingen to Welasco. Lt. James Scoggins of Company F Waco has changed job duties. He is MAJOR CHANCE Collins of Company F presents now the “Unsolved Crime Program Lead.” a 10-year certificate to Lt. James Scoggins at a Scoggins was also presented his 10-year certificate by Company F ceremony at F headquarters in Waco. Collins also Major Chance Collins in a ceremony at company headquarters in Waco. presented Scoggins a customized Springfield 1911 Scoggins, returning to duty after being injured in a motorcycle .45-calibre pistol purchased on his behalf by cur- accident, was also presented a customized Springfield 1911 .45-calibre rent and retired Rangers and members of TRAF. pistol purchased for him by current and retired Rangers and several Scoggins has resumed new duties with Company F after returning from a motorcycle accident. members of the TRAF board.

Jason Taylor Gregory Wilson Scotty Shiver Page 7 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015 Lil’ Rustlers a favorite outing for Company A Texas Rangers

Each year, a group of Texas Rangers from Company A have a special job volunteering at the Lil’ Rustlers Rodeo held during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. The young contestants, who have disabilities, participate in a variety of events such as barrel races with stick horses, steer roping RANGER PETE Luna shared time with his Lil’ RANGER JEFF Wolf compared boots with his Lil’ (the “steer” is a friendly- Rustler, Lucy Rustler, Robert looking head mounted on a bale of hay), bull riding (the “bull” is a big, plush see-saw rocked by cowboys) and live horse rides. The thrills and smiles are all genuine, especially when their cowboys are Texas Rangers. This volunteer event has been a tradition with Company A, accompanied by one of their TRAF directors, Constance White, for the past 15 years. “It’s a great privilege for us to spend time with God’s special children during the rodeo. They touch everyone’s heart,” Ranger Jeff Owles said. After the Lil’ Rustlers Rodeo, the Rangers and Constance rode in the Houston Rodeo grand entry, which opened an entertaining evening at the professional rodeo and concert. RANGERS DARON Parker and Jeff Owles got to enjoy the Lil› Rustler Rodeo with their friend, Jordyn Page 8 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015 39 students enjoy TRAF Scholarships Each edition of the TRAF Newsletter, we highlight recipients of Texas Ranger Association Foundation scholarships, which are under the direction of the scholarship committee headed by chairman Constance White. There are deadlines the students, all children of active Texas Rangers, must meet for applying for scholarships for both semesters and they must maintain a “C” grade point average per semester. A student can receive $2,000 per semester. During the fall 2014 semester, there were 39 full-time students receiving a total of $78,000 worth of scholarships and three part-time students receiving scholarships between $1,000 and $1,500, depending on scholastic hours. The scholarship total for the fall 2014 semester was $81,675. Autumn Patton Travis DeLuna The spring 2015 semester estimate was 41 full-time students for a scholarship total of $82,000. Our four featured participants this edition are Autumn Savannah Patton, Travis Michael DeLuna, Trenton Dwayne Pettigrew and Chandler Rae Davidson.

Autumn Patton Autumn is a sophomore at Collin College where she plans to major in biology. She is the daughter of Texas Ranger Victor Patton, Company B. She’s a member of Phi Theta Kappa and volunteers at Hope’s Door, an organization empowering victims of domestic violence to break the cycle of abuse. Autumn said, “I would like to extend my gratitude towards everyone who has helped my college career move forward. My family and I are so grateful.” Trenton Pettigrew Chandler Davidson

Travis DeLuna sciences. Trenton is the son of Texas Ranger Ronald Travis is a senior at Texas A&M University at Corpus Pettigrew, Company B. Christi. He will graduate in May with an academic major Trenton said, “Your financial generosity has allowed in biomedical science. He has been a volunteer at the me to continue striving towards my goals of obtaining a Muscular Dystrophy Camp in Aransas Pass, as well as St. great education and serving my country in the U.S. Navy. I Peter’s Catholic Church in Corpus. He’s the son of Texas am grateful to have been awarded this scholarship.” Ranger Antonio DeLuna, Company D. Travis said, “I would like to extend my sincerest, heart- Chandler Davidson felt thank you for the blessings you’ve bestowed on me Chandler is a junior attending the University of with this scholarship. I appreciate what you do for Texas . She plans to major in psychology. She is the Ranger families around this great state.” daughter of Texas Ranger A.P. Davidson, Company B. Chandler said, “Because of this scholarship, I will be Trenton Pettigrew able to work less and concentrate more on school. Your Trenton is a sophomore attending Texas A&M generosity is admirable and has benefitted me in many University at College Station where he is a member of the ways. I hope to one day have as positive an impact on A&M Corps – Naval ROTC. His major is wildlife and fisheries someone else’s life that this Foundation has had on mine.”

Page 9 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015 Museum report – Life after 50… Ranger Hall of Fame, Museum By Byron Johnson, current Ranger service. Director Texas Ranger Museum Together with the TRHFM staff, this “think tank” is What’s ahead after a golden planning exhibits and programs offering an exciting view anniversary and four-plus million visitors? of America’s oldest state . Over the last five years there have been How do we craft a product from this story? Assuming almost $6 million in improvements. one already “knows” is fraught with pitfalls. Studying and The Texas Rangers have a new Co. understanding our audiences, their vision and needs is “F” Headquarters. The adjoining Bob crucial. Mitchell Education Center serves DPS Thankfully, Baylor University marketing and and regional nonprofits. The Tobin and communications department has joined with us in this Anne Armstrong Texas Ranger Research complex endeavor. The TRHFM has a bewildering diversity Byron Johnson Center is America’s first dedicated law of audiences—Rangers and Ranger descendants, teachers enforcement library and archives. and students, researchers, Texas natives, foreign visitors and And, the venerable Knox Center banquet hall has the young and old. been renovated. These projects were made possible by Each has different and unexpected desires. Baylor has Benefactors, the City of Waco and State of Texas and will set out to survey, interview and conduct focus groups with springboard us into the 2023 Texas Ranger Bicentennial™. each of these audiences. We want to present the heritage In 2013 the Texas Public Safety Commission appointed of the 19th and 20th centuries with 21st century tools in a the TRHFM steward of the Bicentennial. The major goal is to manner tailored to each audience. improve and modernize the Hall of Fame and Museum. The How does TRAF fit in? Discussions are underway heart of these improvements is a new and immersive Texas exploring how we may expand our partnership. For more Ranger experience for visitors. than 30 years, TRAF and the TRHFM have worked together To “get the history right” a panel of eminent scholars to serve the Rangers and celebrate their heritage. Both and authors of Ranger history has been recruited to serve partners have reached historical milestones. as Texas Ranger Laureates. Resources will determine how far we can go. By They have authored over two dozen of the recent combining resources, and with the impetus of the Texas books on Ranger history. Active and retired Rangers have Ranger Bicentennial™, both organizations will have a bright offered their insight into every aspect of the modern and future of service. H Officers cont. from page 2... in the oil and gas business 32 years. and is a member of the Associated since 2012. His TRAF board membership General Contractors of America. Crawford is a longtime member represents Company F, and he was Lilly specializes in Redi-Mix of TRAF, as was his father before him. sponsored by both Captain Gary de concrete, crane Crawford and wife los Santos of Company D and Captain services, gas plant Sharlotte live in Tony Leal of Company A. construction/ Fort Worth. He is Tom is a native of Houston and he maintenance, a legend in TCU and his wife Judy have lived in Seguin pipeline football lore. 22 years. He has a grown daughter, installation/ He was Jacy, who lives in West Hollywood, maintenance and TRAF chairman and a son, Eric, a junior at Texas Tech heavy hauling. preceding University. Prior to his 26 Chandler, and Wilson is owner and vice president years with Lilly, returns to of Lilly Construction, Inc., in Ozona, Dave served in the executive Dave Wilson Gary Crawford which has served since the U.S. Air Force. committee for 1955. He and wife Jana live in Ozona and have another two-year stint in the past- His company has long been a three children and two grandchildren. chairman’s slot following Chandler’s leader in general oil field construction Dave’s been involved with TRAF resignation.

Page 10 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015 Four new directors join TRAF New directors were added to the to country director for loss prevention Lubbock County sheriff’s office and board of the Texas Ranger Association for . the Texas Department of Public Safety. Foundation at the annual winter In 2004 he joined H-E-B Co. as Ken’s wife, Charlene, has 31 meeting in Waco in early February. regional director of loss prevention and years experience with the DPS The new members are John Palmer, security and has oversight of H-E-B’s as administrative assistant to the Company B; Ken Olson, Company C; profits and risk mitigation programs at regional commander (13 years) and as Rick Hernandez, Company D; and Carl over 100 stores in the U.S. and Mexico. administrative assistant with Company Lambert, Company H. He has continued his ties with C (18 years). Lambert lives in Hempstead and law enforcement and has developed Ken is particularly interested in is a senior vice president with Morgan friendships with several Texas Rangers. supporting young people entering the Stanley Wealth Major Brian J. Burzynski and director higher education Management. Gary Crawford recommended Rick for system. Major He is a native the board. Tony Bennie Houstonian, and Palmer is vice president, investor and director outside of the relations with AT&T, Inc., joining Scott Egert business world, the company in 1999. He has held recommended considers himself numerous leadership positions, Ken to the board. an experienced including roles in mobility, operations, Members “wing shooter,” sales, strategy and care. of the TRAF having hunted all John holds a bachelor’s degree nominating varieties of birds from Baylor University and a master’s committee are Carl Lambert Ken Olson throughout the in business chairman Steve Hemisphere. administration Sikes, Scott Egert, Tom Schleier and He and wife Victoria breed, buy, sell from the Benny Vanecek. and show American Quarter horses in University of reining, reining cow horses and cutting Dallas. He and H horses. He’s also involved in breeding his wife, Tara, Chairman cont. from page 4... and herd development of registered live in Southlake Brahman cattle. and have twin chairmanship my best shot and ask for Major J.D. Robertson and director daughters, your patience and continued support. Gary Crawford recommended Carl for Carolyn and This has never been a one-man the board. Elizabeth and a organization, and over my working Hernandez is a lifelong Texan and son, John. John Palmer years I have learned the values of lives in McAllen with his wife Belinda, Olson is a project manager in putting the best people in responsible son Erick and infrastructure and safety training, Texas positions and let them do their daughter Abigail. A&M Engineering Extension Service. assignments. He’s a native of He retired in 2006 as City of Lubbock That’s the only way I know how to Laredo and was Emergency Management Coordinator. work, so be ready for me to ask you to raised in Mirando He earned a bachelor of science do something, and then step back and City. After high degree in education from Southwestern watch you do it. school, he moved Oklahoma State University as well I appreciate the support my family to Alice and later as a vocational teacher certification has given me as well. Hopefully, they are received a degree from Angelo State University. He is a joking when they say all I do anymore in criminal justice. Certified Public Works Professional. is show up on payday and picnics, so He’s also a past president of the Greater I should have plenty of time to devote Rick was on Rick Hernandez the Alice police Lubbock Chapter of Military Officers to TRAF. force for 12 years as a patrolman, Assn. of America. We have tremendous director of investigations and narcotics In his position with the City of opportunities as an organization and officer. He worked 11 years for WalMart Lubbock, he had a close relationship as a support group for the Rangers. in loss prevention and was promoted with the Lubbock police department, With your help, we’ll get it done. Page 11 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015 Obituaries – George Newton Wright Frazier “Dub” Clark One of the most popular and compassionate Texas A Texas lawman who began his career as a Texas Rangers, George Frazier, 76, died in mid-November. Ranger in 1962 and ended his career as a Captain, Texas Services were held in San Angelo. Rangers, assigned as the first Commander of the DPS In his retirement Office of Internal Affairs, years, George, an died in December at ordained minister, is age 88. certain to be remembered Captain for his outstanding Newton Wright “Dub” direction and touching Clark died peacefully presentations at the in Holly Lake annual Texas Ranger just a day before the Memorial Services during beginning of 2015. reunion weekends each He was born in Center June in Waco. and raised in the George would either Antioch and James give the memorials communities in Shelby himself, or find someone County. through the family to At the relatively George Frazier honor the passing of Captain Dub Clark young age of 16, he Rangers. He wore his title enrolled in what is now of Texas Ranger Chaplain with honor. State University where he received a Frazier lived in Coleman where he had his final scholarship to play football. In 1944 when the university ministerial assignment. A private burial was held in suspended its athletic program, he joined the U.S. Navy Gorman with his son, Pastor Russ Frazier, officiating. He and served in Europe and the Far East until after the end had stepped down from his chaplain’s assignment, but of World War II. was in attendance at the reunion last June. He began what he told people was his life’s calling in George was born in Gorman in 1938 to JD and Annie 1950 when he graduated from the Texas (Keese) Frazier. He attended high school in Odessa and class No. 16 and was assigned to work in Crockett. He worked for the Odessa Police Department seven years worked there until he was transferred to his hometown before joining the Texas Department of Public Safety as a of Center where he and his partner, Russell Vineyard, highway patrolman. served Shelby, San Augustine and Sabine counties for In 1974 he was promoted to the Texas Rangers in 12 years. Company E, where he remained until his retirement. In 1962 he was promoted and assigned to the Texas After retiring from the Rangers, he became an ordained Rangers, Company A, in San Augustine, serving the same minister in the Church of the Nazarene. three counties, plus any other localities that needed him. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Faye Frazier; He was promoted to sergeant and transferred to DPS three sons, Russ Frazier and wife Leigh of San Angelo, Headquarters in 1974 where he served as assistant chief Johnny Cole Frazier and wife Janet of Fort Worth and of criminal law enforcement. His promotion to Captain Scotty Frazier and wife Lisa of Big Spring; his sister, Bettie followed. Kirk and husband George of Granby, Mo; brothers Tommy Friends and fellow Rangers remember Dub for his Frazier and wife Melva of Kirbyville and Jim Frazier and integrity, forthrightness and compassion. He has a long wife Danielle of Fulshear; nine grandchildren and 17 list of young lawmen he mentored over the years. great-grandchildren. Many extended family members and He was used as an example to others on how criminal friends also survive. investigation should be handled. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son, George Wayne Frazier and daughter, Debbie Frazier Moore. H H H Page 12 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015 Rangers graduate forensic academy Five Texas Rangers are among graduates from the National Forensic Academy, held at the University of Tennessee. The Rangers attended the 10-week academy at different intervals. They received specialized training in multiple topics, including crime scene investigations, fingerprinting, death investigations and shooting reconstruction. Every two years, the academy has a three- day symposium for NFA graduates in Nashville for refresher courses plus new developments in forensics science. New symposium topics offered are on fatigue management, pathology of gunshot wounds, mass casualty FIVE TEXAS Rangers have completed studies at the National Forensic Academy at the University investigations and new of Tennessee. They are (l-r) Wende Wakeman, Company D; Mike Adcock, Company B; Don Stoner, theories on fingerprinting. Company B; Kevin Wright, Company F; and Roger Dixon, Company D. H Two benefactors hit distinguished level The Texas Ranger they made a $750 patron’s Lakeway. Association Foundation contribution to TRAF. The second Distinguished is the beneficiary of two They also previously made Benefactor contribution was Distinguished Benefactors, a a $5,000 contribution to gain a made by H-E-B Grocery Co. in designation earned by a gift of headquarters designation and the name of Rick Hernandez, $10,000 to the foundation. in December made the $10,000 who was elected to the TRAF Bill Curtis, a retired captain Distinguished Benefactor gift. board of directors in early in the U.S. Navy, and his wife The Curtises, who regularly February. Greta have an affiliation with attend TRAF functions, See a separate story on TRAF dating back to 1995, including the annual Reunion page 11 with a biography when they met several Texas Weekend and the galas, have on Hernandez and the other Rangers during an outing also been active in purchasing three new directors in this in Brenham. At that time, auction items. They reside in edition. Bill Curtis

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JERRY WELLBORN, right, a director of the Texas Ranger Associa- LAURA HARTMAN, wife of TRAF director Bill Hartman, presents tion Foundation, presents the Benefactor’s certificate to Mickey certificates to new benefactors of the Texas Ranger Association and Kelly Baker, who live in Robert Lee. Wellborn has been one Foundation, Clyde King, left, president of Hartman Newspapers, of the most active directors signing on new benefactors. L.P. of Rosenberg and Lee Hartman, vice president of Hartman Newspapers and General Manager of the Fort Bend Herald. H McWhorter cont. from page 3... Even with his full slate of activities, Gray still finds time to enjoy competition skeet shooting, bass fishing and tournaments and continuing his history lessons on the Rangers. He didn’t hesitate a second when asked his favorite book, “the Bible,” and his favorite movie, “.” His favorite memory he’ll always carry of the TRAF: “Good people working together to show our appreciation for Texas Rangers and their families.” Gray has favorite sayings he suggests to everyone, “Think young and stay happy.” He also recommends “dreaming in technicolor.” Contributors to the TRAF Newsletter: Liz Myrick, [email protected] Constance White Jim Chionsini, jchionsini @yahoo.com NEW COMPANY E Benefactors Monica and Chad Reeves of San Bill Hartman, [email protected] Angelo receive their TRAF certificate from director Jerry Wellborn. Jerry and fellow director Dave Wilson are in a neck-and-neck race For address changes, call to see who’s the leader in the clubhouse on signing new Benefac- tor members to the organization. 254-752-1001 Page 14 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015 Chief Prince report -- Rangers are busy across the state By Randy Prince, Chief, Texas Rangers Greetings, from the Texas Rangers. It has been a busy first few months—with the varied duties and responsibilities— but we’re privileged to work with so many dedicated and professional members of the Department of Public Safety. Now that the 84th Legislative Session is in progress, select members Randy Prince of the division are reviewing proposed legislation to determine how bills would affect law enforcement and the Department of Public Safety. This essential bill review process is being undertaken by both Ranger headquarters and company commanders. As many of you may recall, in 2013, Company F Texas Ranger Lt. James Scoggins was critically injured in an off- duty motorcycle accident. His injuries left him with significant medical expenses and unable to return to work. The Texas Ranger Association Foundation played an important role in assisting the Scoggins family. We are now pleased to announce that James Scoggins has returned to duty as a highly advanced (senior-level) research specialist. James will remain in Waco at the Company F Office and his work will involve overseeing the development, implementation, and monitoring of specialized research projects pertaining to unsolved crimes and case research for the Texas Ranger Division. He will also examine and analyze unsolved homicide, missing persons and major crime investigation files. RETIRED RANGER Captain Richard Sweaney shows his retire- In December, a jury sentenced former Kaufman County ment gift, a special personally engraved Colt 1911, .45-caliber Justice of the Peace Eric Williams to death for his role in the pistol, to U.S. Navy Captain Chris Cassidy at a hunt for service- capital of Assistant District Attorney Mark Hasse. men who have seen action in Afghanistan or Iraq. The hunt, Texas Rangers of Company B were significantly involved held Dec. 5-6-7 at No Name Ranch in Christoval, was the 20th in the investigation as well as the presentment of testimony one sponsored by Patriot Outfitters, a volunteer outreach min- in trial, inclusive of punishment evidence regarding the acts istry sponsored by Main Street Baptist Church of Georgetown. of murder against Kaufman County District Attorney Mike The ranch is owned by TRAF chairman Jim Chionsini. Cassidy will be the special guest speaker Saturday night at the Retired McClelland and his wife Cynthia. Ranger Reunion Weekend in Waco. The death sentence was a testament to the fact that Texans will not tolerate cowards who would commit or Ranger Molina played an important role in a public contemplate such reprehensible acts. corruption investigation in which the Hidalgo County As unconscionable as their were, what followed Sheriff and many other public servants were convicted of was an outstanding collaboration between numerous local, money laundering and bribery that included a narcotics state and federal law enforcement agencies to investigate task force unit committing home invasion robberies and the facts and seek justice. theft of drug trafficking currency. Texas Ranger Melba Molina received a “Partnership for Ranger Molina was nominated among many other law Public Safety” Award from the U.S. Immigration and Customs enforcement professionals across the United States but was Enforcement Agency at the International Association of selected as the sole recipient of the prestigious award. Chiefs of Police Conference in . Chief continued page 16 Page 15 Texas Ranger Association Newsletter March 2015 Chief cont. from page 15... and transnational drug trafficking certified through the International A vital function in the early days of organizations operating along the Association for Bloodstain Pattern the Texas Rangers was border security. Mexican border. Analysts. And it continues, with significant I applaud the dedication of the Texas Rangers are one of the few, if Ranger involvement in the ongoing division personnel and the unwavering not the only agency around the nation border operation dubbed “Operation support of their families. which provides bloodstain pattern Strong Safety II.” The Texas Ranger Division strives analysis training for each of our violent There is ample and compelling to deliver a high degree of service in crime investigators. evidence that the Texas-Mexico an unbiased manner. Also, we have begun the process border is not secure, and this lack of We engage in continuous learning of sending nine Rangers to various security undermines public safety and and are committed to performing shooting incident reconstruction and homeland security in every region of our work with the highest degree of officer involved shooting classes held the state. honesty, integrity and professionalism. by the nation’s leading authorities in A confluence of factors resulted In doing so, one of the most these subjects. in the Valley of Texas important duties as a Texas Ranger is The Rangers will develop and becoming the nation’s epicenter of investigating crime scenes. deliver this training to the division two drug and human smuggling and And, as an example of our times a year until every Ranger has trafficking. commitment to excellence, our Crime attended the class. The has Scene Investigation Working Group The anticipated inaugural class will recognized the importance and (CSIWG) has established affirmative be sometime in the fall of 2015. linkage of border security to public steps to seek and improve our crime I again would like to thank the safety, and consistently, has dedicated scene investigation activities. Texas Ranger Association Foundation substantial resources to increase This working group is comprised for the outstanding commitment in capabilities at the border. of one Ranger from each company perpetuating the history of the Texas The DPS is on the front lines, with Texas Ranger Troy Wilson as the Rangers. and I applaud the dedication of chairperson. This close knit organization has our personnel and the unwavering In January, 2015, the CSIWG held a supported retired and active Rangers support of their families. Basic Bloodstain Pattern Analysis Class since its inception and continues to do The Department is on the front in Waco. This class marks the fifth class so through the actions of its dedicated lines of national security battling and 93 Rangers have attended. members. human smuggling, child exploitation The basic bloodstain class is Until next time—God bless.

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ORDER BY MAIL OR PHONE Texas Ranger Association Foundation 104 Texas Ranger Trail • Waco, TX 76706 254-752-1001

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