On October 26, 2023, Texas Ranger Jesse Perez of the Texas Rangers Division – San Antonio was honored with the Lifesaving Award during a ceremony presided over by the Texas Public Safety Commission (PSC). Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw presented the prestigious award to Ranger Perez in recognition of his heroic actions on May 2, 2023, during Operation Lone Star.
Ranger Perez's courageous actions unfolded when he was assigned to the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Team to support the Texas Rangers Special Operations Group in the Eagle Pass rail yard. It was during this mission that he overheard radio traffic from a U.S. Border Patrol Agent regarding an undocumented female who had been struck by a northbound train, resulting in the traumatic amputation of her leg.
Without hesitation, Ranger Perez responded immediately and rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, he wasted no time and began providing crucial first aid. Utilizing his DPS-issued tourniquet, Ranger Perez skillfully applied it to the injured woman's upper left leg to control the severe bleeding.
Given the remote location of the incident and the absence of a nearby level one trauma center, Ranger Perez quickly assessed the situation and decided to request a medical air evacuation. While waiting for EMS resources to arrive, he took measures to keep the injured woman as calm as possible. Ranger Perez obstructed her view of the grievous injury and engaged in conversation to control her breathing and minimize shock.
In the meantime, members of the SRT-5 (Special Response Team) arrived on the scene to assist. They prepared for the safe extraction and transportation of the injured individual from the elevated bridge, down a steep embankment, and across a field to a waiting EMS unit.
After a successful transport to the EMS unit, SRT-5 members promptly secured a landing zone for the incoming medical aircraft. Ranger Perez continued to accompany the EMS unit to the landing zone, ensuring the injured woman's safe and swift transfer.
The injured individual was subsequently airlifted to a hospital in San Antonio, where she received the necessary medical treatment and care for her life-threatening injuries.
Ranger Jesse Perez's quick thinking, medical expertise, and unwavering dedication to preserving life during a critical situation exemplify the highest standards of service in the Texas Rangers Division.
