by: Trent Derr - American Exceptionalism
The Texas Rangers are the second oldest state law enforcement agency in the United States. They initially functioned as a paramilitary force during the time that the Republic of Texas was an independent country. Today the Rangers function as the Texas State Bureau of Investigation. Over time, they have investigated and captured criminals spanning from murderers (John Wesley Hardin), to bank robbers (Bonnie & Clyde), to corrupt politicians. As part of their long and colorful history, the Rangers have developed quite a reputation. That reputation was earned by the Rangers time after time taking on some of the most evil people in society with a relatively small number of men. As an example, there were only 144 Rangers in 2009.
One enduring story about the Rangers from 1896 includes the original occurrence of the well-known saying: “One Riot, One Ranger”. In response to the illegal fight that was scheduled to break out in Dallas, the Rangers sent one man, Captain Bill McDonald to prevent the riot. Although many in the public were concerned that the Rangers only sent one man to address the fight, Captain McDonald was accustomed to being outnumbered. To jump to the end of the story, of course McDonald was successful in achieving his mission and preventing the fight. However it is Captain McDonald’s response to the Mayor of Dallas that echoes through Ranger history. When the Mayor questioned McDonald regarding why he didn’t have more Rangers with him, the Captain replied (paraphrased), “One Riot, One Ranger”.
Sometimes, the right person in the right place at the right time makes all the difference. Today America’s Patriots face a similar challenge in being outnumbered by those who are plotting to do evil in our society. Continue...
