In July 1965, a discussion between Past International President Carl Bowen and former FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover resulted in the birth of the Optimist International Respect for Law community activity. The Greater Southwest Optimist Club instituted this program in February of 2012 which results in presenting an outstanding law enforcement officer and or an outstanding citizen with a Respect for Law commendation. Respect for Law recipients include:
2012………Darren Long, Major Travis County Sheriff’s Office
2013………Art Acevedo, Chief Austin Police Department
2013………Maria Conchola, Constable Precinct Four
2014………David A. Escamilla, Travis County Attorney
2015 …….David R. Jaso, Assistant Chief Probation Officer Retired
