Brazos County Law Enforcement Heads to D.C. for Inauguration Security
As the countdown to the presidential inauguration approaches, excitement and pride swell among the dedicated officers of Brazos County. A contingent of 101 local law enforcement officers from various agencies will travel to Washington, D.C., to help secure the momentous event. The inauguration, where Donald Trump will be sworn in as the 47th President of the United States, is not just a day of celebration for the nation, but also a significant undertaking for these officers.
Bringing Local Expertise to the National Stage
The team, comprised of officers from the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office, Texas A&M University Police, Bryan Police, College Station Police, and constables from all four precincts, is set to depart College Station on January 18 and will return on the 21st. Lt. Mike Buckley of the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office is coordinating this impressive operation, marking his fourth trip to an inauguration.
“There’s a strong sense of duty among our officers,” Buckley said, noting that they will be deputized as U.S. marshals during their time in D.C. “We’ve provided security at inaugurations since the 1990s, and it’s always a meaningful experience.”
Historic Moments with a Side of Cold
Many officers express a deep sense of pride and honor representing their community on such a grand stage. Sheriff Wayne Dicky, making his second inauguration appearance, reminisced about the last event: “The camaraderie between our local agencies working together for a common purpose was remarkable.” He emphasized that for many, this assignment is more than just a job; it is taking part in history.
However, along with excitement comes the reality of the unpredictable D.C. weather. Officer David Simmons from College Station shared his thoughts about the notorious chill in January, saying, “I’ve heard horror stories about how cold it gets. That’s what makes me a bit nervous!”
Indeed, the officers will be stationed outdoors, wearing layers to brave the wind and potentially frigid conditions. It’s not uncommon for temperatures to plummet to the single digits, as experienced by Lt. Ed Costello during one of his previous trips.
Commitment to Protection Without Political Bias
Despite the political nature of the event, these officers emphasize their role as apolitical protectors. “We’re tasked with safeguarding the next President of the United States, and it’s an obligation we take seriously,” Simmons explained. “Whatever political affiliations we may hold, our main goal is ensuring a peaceful transition of power.”
Officer Mark Wilson from Bryan Police eagerly shared his honor in being part of this national effort, expressing that his previous agencies had never participated in anything like this. “It’s exciting to volunteer and represent our community in such a significant way,” he said.
Community Assurance
With a large number of officers away from their posts, concerns about local safety naturally arise. However, Buckley reassured residents that adequate staffing will remain to meet community needs. “We’ve carefully considered our staffing requirements, and the streets will be safe,” he confirmed, putting worries to rest.
Furthermore, thanks to the experience gained from managing large public events like Texas A&M football games, Brazos County officers often find themselves well-prepared for such responsibilities.
Looking Forward to the Experience
The anticipation grows for the officers heading to D.C. Each of them looks forward to sharing their stories with family one day—stories of how they contributed to history while standing proudly along the parade route. For them, this is more than just work; it’s an investment in their community’s legacy.
As they gear up for this monumental occasion, the local law enforcement agencies are proud to serve, embodying the spirit of dedication and commitment that defines Brazos County. Here’s to safety, solidarity, and a successful inauguration!
