The Texas Rangers recently announced three new history making promotions.

According to a press release from the Texas Department of Public Safety, three Texas Rangers have been promoted to the rank of Captain. Two of these Rangers, Wende Wakeman and Melba Saena, are the first women to ever hold the position of Captain in the organization. James Thomas, the last Ranger recently promoted, is the first person in Ranger history to a hold a doctorate degree.

“These three talented, dedicated professionals have excelled in positions throughout their DPS careers and have exhibited tremendous commitment to the people of Texas and our law enforcement partners,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “I have the utmost confidence they will continue to make the department proud in their new roles within the Rangers.”

Promotions for Wende Wakeman and James Thomas are effective September 1, and they will be stationed at the Austin headquarters. Melba Saena's promotion was effective May 15, and she is stationed in Edinburg.

Ranger Wakeman has been with the DPS for 22 years, and made history in 2014 when she was the first woman promoted to the rank of Ranger lieutenant.

Ranger Thomas graduated from the DPS Academy in 2002 and has served in Houston, El Paso, and Waco. His doctoral degree is in educational leadership, and he holds a bachelor's in criminal justice and a master's in behavioral science.

Ranger Saena served as a police officer in Mission and for the McAllen ISD before joining TxDPS in 2003. She's been recognized by the FBI for her role in helping rescue a missing 5-year-old child.

Read more about the accomplishments of these Rangers here.

If you want to learn more about the history of the Texas Rangers, be sure to check out the Texas Ranger Museum located right in Waco.

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