2021S0548-1 09/01/21
By: Whitmire S.R. No. 54
SENATE RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The Texas Senate is pleased to recognize one of
its most visible and valued employees, Rick DeLeon, on his
retirement as the Senate's sergeant-at-arms, bringing to a close
a distinguished career in state service that has spanned more
than three decades; and
WHEREAS, In his 15 years with the Senate, Rick DeLeon has
become renowned for his strong work ethic, his serious demeanor
that belies an endlessly giving nature, and his unwavering
dedication to the institution; Senate staffers have come to rely
on Rick for his advice and his ability to solve problems, and the
Texas Senate is indeed fortunate to have been the beneficiary of
his servant's heart; and
WHEREAS, A veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Rick
began his career in state service as a highway patrolman with the
Texas Department of Public Safety; he became certified as a scuba
diver and joined the department's dive recovery team, and he rose
through the ranks during his 17 years with the agency to become a
part of Governor Rick Perry's security detail and a trusted
member of the security team for the governor's own dives, a duty
he took particular delight in; and
WHEREAS, Rick joined the Texas Senate in 2006 as the
assistant sergeant-at-arms and was sworn in as the Senate's
sergeant-at-arms the following year; in this post, he has
maintained order and decorum in the Senate Chamber and overseen
his office's numerous employees, which include assistant
sergeants, car guards, porters, and messengers; a believer in
preparedness, Rick is known for his ability to effectively train
messengers and assistant sergeants on committee and floor
processes and in security awareness, including being watchful
for suspicious activity and evacuating committee rooms; the
skills he has taught his employees have allowed many of them to go
on to thrive in positions elsewhere in the Capitol; and
WHEREAS, Rick served as president of the National
Legislative Services and Security Association, which has honored
him with multiple accolades, including the association's highest
honor, the Tony Beard Memorial Award, in recognition of his
outstanding service and accomplishments; and
WHEREAS, An avid outdoorsman, Rick has provided game from
his hunting trips to create his popular chili to help fund the
Senate's annual holiday party, showing that even in his leisure
activities he worked tirelessly for and was absolutely dedicated
to the employees of the Texas Senate; and
WHEREAS, Throughout his career, Rick has benefited from
the loving support of his wife, Sissy, and their children, Ricky
and Selena; his retirement will provide him the opportunity to
further dote on his four, and soon to be five, grandchildren;
while to the Senate he is known for his emotional discipline and
professional conduct, to his grandchildren he is known simply as
Gru, from Minions movie fame, and he answers them when they call
out for their beloved Gru; and
WHEREAS, An esteemed public servant, Rick DeLeon has long
held the respect and admiration of all who work in the Capitol,
and his presence as the Senate's sergeant-at-arms will be greatly
missed by senators, staff members, and colleagues alike; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 87th
Legislature, 2nd Called Session, hereby commend Rick DeLeon on
his exceptional service as the Senate's sergeant-at-arms and
extend to him best wishes for happiness in the retirement years
ahead; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
him as an expression of highest regard from the Texas Senate.