Known to be a selfless, caring and valuable member of the Killeen ISD Police Department, Officer Cary Spate has received the esteemed 2026 State of Texas Law Enforcement Achievement Award for Valor.
Officer Spate, who’s served with KISD PD since 2022, was presented with the prestigious state recognition Friday, June 26, at the Texas State Capitol in Austin by The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE).
The honor highlighted Officer Spate’s heroic efforts at the Killeen Mall on Dec. 21, 2024, when she, without hesitation, rushed into a dangerous situation and took action, rendering aid to injured bystanders after a suspect rammed a truck through the entrance to JCPenney’s as holiday shoppers ran for their lives.
“I am incredibly humbled by this award, but this recognition belongs to the collective response of all first responders from that day. Jurisdictional lines disappeared, and everyone was quick to respond to stop an eminent threat and protect the lives of innocent people. I have profound respect for each one of them,” Officer Spate said. “My thoughts remain with people who were hurt that day, and I’m proud to serve our resilient community alongside the heroic first responders who help keep it safe every day.”
The commission said that Officer Spate’s nomination was carefully evaluated by the Achievement Awards Judging Panel and subsequently ratified by the TCOLE Board of Commissioners.
The annual award recognizes “peace officers, reserve officers, telecommunicators, and county corrections professionals who have demonstrated exceptional performance beyond the standard expectations of their duties through acts of professional achievement, public service, or valor.”
“As Chief, there are few moments that make me prouder than seeing one of our officers recognized for extraordinary courage. Officer Cary Spate responded without hesitation during one of the most dangerous incidents our community has faced, demonstrating exceptional bravery, sound judgment, and an unwavering commitment to protecting innocent lives,” Killeen ISD Chief of Police Erik Hydorn said.
“Receiving the 2026 State of Texas Law Enforcement Achievement Award for Valor is a well-deserved recognition of her actions that day. Officer Spate represents the character and professionalism we strive for every day, and our department is honored to serve alongside her.”
The distinction isn’t Officer Spate’s first. Last summer, she earned the 2025 Warrior Award from the Texas Municipal Police Association (TMPA), the state’s largest law enforcement association.
During Officer Spate’s tenure with the KISD Police Department she has held several roles, including campus police officer, patrol officer, field trainer, and instructor.
Photos courtesy: Texas Commission on Law Enforcement