The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today dedicated a memorial marker in honor of Highway Patrol Sgt. William “Karl” Keesee, who was killed in a patrol car crash on Oct. 29, 2015. Sgt. Keesee’s family, DPS leadership, fellow troopers and members of the community attended the ceremony at the DPS office in Brownwood.
“It takes an extraordinary person to take on the risks and responsibilities of a peace officer, and Sgt. Keesee was a man of great courage and principle who selflessly served his community,” said DPS Deputy Director Col. David Baker. “The Department of Public Safety is immensely grateful for his unwavering commitment to the people of Texas, and his sacrifice will always be remembered.”
“Today we remember the life of a Texas hero and offer our deepest sympathies to the Keesee family,” said DPS Region 5 Commander Gary Albus. “While there are no words to adequately express our appreciation for Sgt. Keesee’s loyalty and dedication to this department and all of Texas, this monument will be a constant reminder of his noble service.”
Keesee joined DPS in 1990 and was stationed in Brownwood at the time of his death. During his career, Keesee received numerous commendations from agency personnel, and most recently in August 2015, he received a Texas Highway Patrol Division Chief Award for his response to a life-threatening situation. He is the 217th DPS officer to die in the line of duty since 1837. He is survived by his wife and two children.
The “We the People of the State of Texas” monument program was founded by Richard Metcalf to honor DPS officers who were killed in the line of duty. After Richard’s death in 1998, his brother Don Metcalf stepped in and continued the program honoring those who gave their lives protecting the citizens of Texas.
There are currently more than 80 monuments throughout the state. To read more about the Metcalf family’s efforts, please visit: http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/memorial/.
(News release from the Texas DPS)