A Mississippi Highway Patrol trooper recovering from injuries suffered in a gunbattle in February was feted with an authentic Jackson State University football helmet and jersey, honoring the lawman’s bravery and service.
DeAndre Dixon, 29, of Utica, a huge fan of Tiger sports and JSU, received a special salute Tuesday from President Carolyn W. Meyers, head football Coach Tony Hughes and Robert Cook, chair of the JSU Tiger Fund Athletic Foundation.
Dixon, a trooper since 2011, said his admiration for JSU began years ago.
“I had family members who attended Jackson State, and once I became a trooper I was privileged to be able to escort the football and band to different events. Today is truly an honor and blessing,” he said. “I really want to thank the president, the coach and other members of JSU for their support.”
Because of Dixon’s loyalty to the university, he was declared “an official Tiger,” receiving from the new coach football apparel from last season. “Hurry up and get well so we can put you out on the field,” Hughes challenged.
Meyers, along with other staffers and campus public safety, expressed gratitude to Dixon and the colleagues who accompanied him for working daily to ensure the safety of all residents of the state.
“Don’t ever think you’re unappreciated,” she said. Meyers told the visiting troopers, “We’re praying for your safety.” To Dixon, she said on behalf of JSU’s 44,000 alums and 10,000 students “we’re praying for your speedy recovery, and we’re here for you.”
Cook, a JSU alum and also deputy executive director of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, described Dixon as a fellow officer who’s a “Jacksonian at heart.” Cook said it’s important that Dixon and the MHP know that JSU appreciates their sacrifices every day. “They all put their lives in harm’s way.”
Wounded in the foot and knee, Dixon said he expects to be able to fully walk on his own without the aid of crutches within a few months. Sadly, the gunbattle with the perpetrator left a police officer dead and two other state troopers injured.
Although beset by emotional and physical scars, Dixon expresses admiration to his comrades for their support and brotherhood. They are helping him heal and “don’t want me to do anything on my own,” he said appreciatively. “From the command staff on down, they really take great care of me.” Dixon also praised the public for its widespread support.
Despite the risks he and his comrades confront daily, he maintains a positive spirit.
“If you keep God first in your life, you’ll never go wrong,” he said.
Though temporarily sidelined from public service while on the mend, he is looking forward to suiting up again to fulfill his commitment to protecting the people of Mississippi.
He especially would like to return to JSU to watch first lady Michelle Obama deliver her commencement address to graduates Saturday at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium. And, if he’s able to attend, Dixon may get to see one of his comrades – who joined him for his JSU visit – working as part of Obama’s security detail.
