Author: HCMUD 150

We celebrate the heroes who are there for us when the unthinkable happens. Our frontline communications personnel are a critical part of our first responder community and form the vital link between callers in distress and our emergency response teams.

They are the first voice you hear when you call our Emergency Dispatch Center, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. They guide our deputies through critical situations around the clock and keep our county safe.

Unsung Heroes

In 2021 alone, our dedicated 911 call takers fielded more than a million calls, a historic call volume not seen since 2014.

On a typical day, they field 2,800 calls to 911 and 1,300 calls to our non-emergency line. Our call takers answer emergency calls within two seconds, exceeding the national standard set by NENA.

And within two minutes or less, they have activated emergency personnel to the scene and are on to taking the next call.

It’s a job where every second counts. Through efficient call handling, our 911 dispatchers reduce response times and help save lives.

We say thank you to the first of the first responders, the calm voice navigating us through our most difficult moments by gathering essential information and determining the type of emergency service needed. During these trying times, we’re especially grateful for their service.

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On Monday, we kicked off the new year by welcoming cherished members of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Junior Mounted Posse to a ceremonial signing and presentation of proclamations in honor of their annual tradition of a pony express relay.

The Posse will hand-deliver Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo invitations to local officials in surrounding counties, starting January 15 in Columbus.

The old method of delivery, called the pony express relay ride, is a reminder of a time-honored tradition. It will cover a total of more than 100 miles of roads.

The Pony Express Relay Ride

• January 15: Columbus, Weimar, Hallettsville
• January 29: Tomball, Magnolia, Navasota
• February 12: Chambers, Liberty, and Polk

The Posse, now in its 70th year, is the oldest youth equestrian drill team in Texas.

Throughout the year, they practice horsemanship, act as agency ambassadors, and celebrate our Western heritage through their participation in parades, rodeos, and other local community events.

Posse members, who are 6 to 20 years old, dedicate countless hours to learning and executing intricate drills and maneuvers. They are an extension of the Sheriff’s Office in the community.

“What I enjoy most about the program is seeing their growth first-hand – we watch them gain more training and confidence in riding over time,” said Lt. Chris Adolph, who serves as the program coordinator for the Posse.

“Our Mounted Patrol trainers are hands-on advisors and mentors. It’s also a family affair that teaches various aspects of teamwork and commitment.”

Lt. Adolph added, “Mounted patrol is one way to break down barriers and bring us closer to the community. People gravitate to the horses and start conversations. They want to engage with us and know more.”

Join the Posse

The Posse is always looking for new members. Members must have access to a trained horse and transportation for the horse and equipment to practices and events.

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Lead Drillmaster

For Dalyn Bussey, who is the lead drillmaster for the Posse and mom to one of the youngest members, the positive interaction with law enforcement is what drew her to get involved.

Bussey said, “My son joined almost three years ago. We were excited to find a group that combined our love of horses and supporting law enforcement. The positive interaction we have with the deputies is fantastic. It’s priceless to have my son consider himself part of the HCSO family – and he can share that feeling with his friends.”

In Houston, rodeo season is one of our city’s pride points and a beloved salute to our deep Texas roots. Going Texan tells everyone that you belong to this county and great state, and it belongs to you. It’s something we pride ourselves on. It’s unmatched.

We look forward to taking in all that we have come to love about the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, which celebrates its 90th anniversary this year. And we look forward to cheering on our Junior Mounted Posse.

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