AUSTIN, Texas (KWTX) - Waco police's K9 Andor and Copperas Cove police's Officer Elijah Garretson were among the 45 first responders to whom Gov. Greg Abbott presented awards honoring their service and sacrifice, according to a statement."Today, on September 11, 2026, we remember those we lost and are inspired by the bravery and resilience that define what it means to be an American," Abbott said in the 2026 Star Of Texas Awards in Austin.

"Texas is eternally grateful to those who serve and protect our communities every single day. The men and women we have lost will live on through their brothers and sisters in uniform, friends and family, and Americans who are free today because of their sacrifice."Andor's storyWaco police officers, including Andor and his handler, Sgt. Michael Bucher, responded to a report of a civil disturbance with a gun.

A caller said a male was at the location threatening to shoot her husband.