Austin, TX–The pictures tell the whole story. Jack Wilson is the embodiment of all that American’s hope for their country. He personifies what it means to be brave, courageous, self-sacrificing, and willing to do what needs to be done even when it’s hard.
At a ceremony held at the Governor’s Mansion on Monday, January 13th, Texas Governor Greg Abbott gave Jack Wilson the highest honor that a civilian in Texas can receive: the medal of courage.
Watch the video here:
You can jump to around 5:50 if you want to see Wilson receive the medal without all of Abbott’s leadup remarks—though it’s all good.
Abbott sang Wilson’s praises, and rightfully so. He said, “”When faced with an evil that few of us will ever comprehend, Jack Wilson responded with strength, bravery, and with love for those in the church that day. The courage in his actions cannot be understated, and Jack is not only a hero to West Freeway Church of Christ — he is a hero to the entire state of Texas.”
Wilson lost two friends in the West Freeway Church of Christ that December Sunday morning. It was not lost on the crowd that this was a bittersweet moment for Wilson. No medal can replace his two friends.
But Wilson also kept the big picture in mind: his right to carry a gun saved lives. Wilson said, “‘When events arise, you’re going to do one of two things. You’re either going to step up and do what’s right or walk away. And I’m not one to walk away.”
We salute you, Mr. Wilson. You’re a hero—and to more than just the folks in that church