United States Attorney Thomas Govan proudly congratulates Special Agent Senior Pate Nelson, recipient of the 2025 State Officer of the Year Award, and Supervisory Special Agent Richard M. Holston, recipient of the 2025 Task Force Officer of the Year Award, both with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.
These awards recognize law enforcement professionals whose exceptional service, unwavering dedication, and commitment to justice have made a significant impact on federal investigations and strengthened the partnerships that protect the citizens of the Middle District of Alabama.
Special Agent Nelson and Supervisory Special Agent Holston exemplify the highest standards of professionalism and public service. Their tireless efforts have advanced complex federal investigations, enhanced public safety, and reinforced the strong partnerships that are essential to our mission.
Congratulations to both recipients on these well-deserved honors, and thank you for your continued service to the people of the Middle District of Alabama.
Pictured below from left to right: Alabama Secretary of Law Enforcement Hal Taylor, Special Agent Senior Pate Nelson, Supervisory Special Agent Richard Holston, and U.S. Attorney Thomas Govan.
Pate Nelson is a product of Geneva County. His dad is ALEA Captain Tracy Nelson, retired, Granddad was a Retired Captain with Alabama Department of Public Safety – Doug Nelson, and his Great Grandaddy was Skeeter Pate, a retired Captain of the Alabama Department of Public Safety – State Bureau of Investgation. His uncle is Sgt. Terry Nelson, former Criminal Investgator for Dothan Police and now was promoted to Sgt. of Patrol Division for Dothan Police Department.
Pate got his law enforcement begining, beside in his DNA, with Houston County Sheriff Department.
Congratulations to all, especially to Pate Nelson.
