[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 172 (Friday, October 17, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E965]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





     RECOGNIZING DANNY WALLACE SMITH WITH A CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN 
                              COMMENDATION

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PETE SESSIONS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 17, 2025

  Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to present Danny Wallace 
Smith of Crawford, Texas, with a Congressional Veteran Commendation for 
his exceptional armed forces service and unwavering commitment to our 
country, state, and local communities. Danny served three years in the 
United States Army, including 18 months in Vietnam during the Tet 
Offensive of 1968, one of the most significant and challenging periods 
in United States military history. His bravery and dedication were 
recognized with numerous commendations, including the National Defense 
Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 5 Bronze 
Service Stars and one Silver Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam 
Cross of Gallantry, Navy Valorous Service Ribbon, and a Presidential 
Unit Citation.
  Following his military service, Danny pursued higher education at 
Hardin Simmons University and earned a B.A. from Wayland Baptist 
College. He then dedicated 32 years to the Texas Department of Public 
Safety, where he rose to the rank of Regional Commander, overseeing 46 
counties. His leadership and commitment to public safety earned him 
widespread respect. Notably, he served as the Commander of all DPS 
uniformed forces during the Mt. Carmel incident, further underscoring 
his critical role in high-stakes situations.
  After retiring from DPS, Danny continued to serve by leading in the 
field of education. As Director of the Law Enforcement Academy and 
Division Chair of the Emergency Services Education Center at McLennan 
Community College, he mentored and trained future law enforcement 
professionals. His service extended further when he was called upon to 
serve as Interim Police Chief in Bellmead (2019) and Robinson (2020), 
Texas. In 2023, he was appointed as the full-time Police Chief of 
Robinson, where he later retired in August 2025.
  Spanning over 54 years, Danny's career reflects a lifetime of 
selfless service, from the battlefield to public safety leadership, 
education, and community policing. His enduring contributions have had 
a lasting impact on the people of Texas and the broader law enforcement 
community.
  It is with great honor and respect that I present Danny Wallace Smith 
with a Congressional Veteran Commendation from the 17th Congressional 
District of Texas. His exemplary service to our Nation and continued 
contributions to his community stand as a powerful example of public 
duty and honor.

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