Officer Reza, of the TCSO Detention Bureau, was recognized this morning as he was officially promoted to the rank of Corporal. Command Staff gathered to support and encourage him in his new role. We are proud of you Corporal Reza - may you continue to lead by example!

Officer Parish, along with her husband (and fellow Officer), attended a special lunch today with Sheriff Waybourn and Executive Chief Deputy Banasco at the Cheesecake Factory. Officer Parish's name was drawn for the opportunity during National Correctional and Employee Week.

Last week Ben Christy lead Command Staff in a two day training session focussing on strategic planning, team building, and reinforcing core objectives. The course was refreshing, encouraging, and motivating. We're eager and ready to tackle this week - Happy Monday!

Deputy John Ross retired today with over 30 years of faithful service to the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office. While that is impressive in its own right, John’s history of service prior to TCSO is equally remarkable. John served with the United States Air Force Security Police for 22 years. The Air Force sent him on journeys all over the world, including Vietnam. Eventually he was stationed at Carswell Air Force Base in 1979 as a Technical Sergeant. His nature was hands-on and over time he mentored many young SP’s. He helped refine their skill, coached them to do better, fight stronger, and he somehow managed to be frank but still encouraging. Many young men were raised up in those days. They grew from Airmen to young NCO’s navigating the challenges of leadership. As chance would have it, or perhaps it was fate, one of those young men happened to be me.

I knew him, in those days, as Master Sergeant Ross. To say he had a tremendous impact on me is an understatement. He was easy to approach, constantly placed others before himself, and always – and I do mean ALWAYS – ensured that the mission was accomplished. When issues arose, he never held it against someone. Instead, he kindly directed them and encouraged them to get back in the fight – to press forward.

I was grateful to have a few priceless moments to visit him today. I couldn’t help but think of all he has done. He is a mighty American Patriot, a Combat Veteran, a tenured Deputy, a father, a husband, and a great servant of 52 combined years. His keys to success stemmed from humility, faith in his people, and his incredible ability to lift up his peers.

Today, I saluted the old Sergeant once more, before he rode off into the sunset to conquer his next chapter in life. He humbly passed the torch, leaving us to continue to fight the good fight. And as our visit concluded, he leaned in to give me one more piece of leadership advice and to encourage me on my journey. As I left to resume my duties, his words resonated with me. Even though I recognize that I’m the Sheriff, today I waved good bye and farewell to my leader – to my Master Sergeant. God Speed good Sergeant – and may the wind be at your back!

At Your Service,
Bill E Waybourn