In Memory of Sergeant Clay Garrison

Texas is again facing the tragedy of losing another officer to the COVID19 pandemic. On Wednesday, August 25, 2021, Sergeant Clay Garrison, badge number 118, passed away due to complications of contracting the coronavirus while on duty. Federal mandates have determined that all law enforcement officers who die from COVID19 be treated as line-of-duty deaths for their families to receive full death benefits. Sgt. Garrison was 48 years old.

Sergeant Clay Garrison had devoted his career to law enforcement. He had served with the Port of Galveston Police Department for more than 17 years. The Port of Galveston has some unique policing issues as it is one of the larger ports in the US. Garrison joined the Port Police in 2015 as a facilities security officer. He also worked as an administrative sergeant. Garrison’s responsibilities included cruise line security, dispatch, contractors, drones, grants, and department training.

Port of Galveston Police Department

Garrison served with the Port of Galveston Police Department. Unlike a community police department, this department was solely focused on security within the Port of Galveston, Texas. Their position and duties are similar to that of the federal level customs and border protection but at a local level.

The mission statement of the department reads as follows: “The mission of the Port of Galveston Police Department is to enhance the quality of life of all tenants and visitors to the Port of Galveston by working cooperatively with the public and within the framework of the U.S. Constitution to enforce the laws, preserve the peace, and provide for a safe environment.”

Remembrances

Sergeant Clay Garrison leaves behind his wife and two children. They join the ranks of hundreds of family members left behind as law enforcement officers across the state of Texas have been lost to the virus. It will take the support of their communities and the state to see that these families and children can reach their full potential.

The Port of Galveston Police Department posted their condolences and asked for prayers for the family of Sgt. Garrison. “It is with great sadness that the Port of Galveston Police Department announces the passing of our own Sgt. Clay Garrison. Sgt. Garrison was an instrumental part of our department as our Facilities Security Officer (FSO) and liaison with all Federal branches. His passing leaves not only a void in our department but also in our hearts. Besides being a great officer, Clay was a friend, father, and husband. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Please share some of your memories with him below so that we may celebrate his life.”

Friend and coworker Bill Clay posted his condolences to the family. “Clay was always pleasant and a pleasure to work with at the Port. He will surely be missed. Prayers go out to his wife and son. RIP, my friend.”

Joel Ivan Rivera, a Port of Galveston coworker, shared his grief online. “Clay was such a jovial person and always a pleasure to be around! I wish I had known him for longer. You will be missed, brother. We all have your six.”