A Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Texas Ranger was selected to receive the Melvin Martin First Responder of the Year award. Texas Ranger Scott Stevenson, of Lubbock, accepted the award Wednesday, Sept. 12, by the Kiwanis Club of Abilene.

The award is named after retired Abilene Police Chief Melvin Martin, who presented the award. This honor is for first responders who have demonstrated great ability and dedication to their profession and community.

Ranger Stevenson graduated from Abilene High School in 1992. He attended Hardin-Simmons University and later graduated from the DPS academy in 1996. Prior to becoming a Texas Ranger, Stevenson served in the Abilene district as a Texas Highway Patrol Sergeant.