AUSTIN — The Lone Star State has 92 new DPS troopers. Texas Department of Public Safety Director Steven McCraw Friday was joined by members of the Texas Public Safety Commission as the department commissioned 92 men and women as the state’s newest Highway Patrol troopers. The graduation ceremony was held in Austin.
“Law enforcement officers have the opportunity and privilege to change people’s lives, and to serve as an inspiration and a positive influence to others — both on and off duty,” PSC Chairman Steven P. Mach said in a DPS press release. “As you embark on your new career as a Trooper, you will no doubt make a difference in the lives of countless Texans as you protect and serve them.”
The B-2018 class is DPS’ 164th recruit school and included 11 women, 20 former law enforcement officers and 29 military veterans. The oldest graduate is 51 and the youngest is 21.
“Today you join an elite group of law enforcement professionals, and we are confident that you will uphold the traditions and values of both DPS and the Texas Highway Patrol,” DPS Director Steven McCraw said. “It takes extreme courage to risk your own safety in order to protect the safety of others. We thank you all for answering the call to serve and protect your fellow Texans, and we are proud to be welcoming each of you to the DPS family.”
The new troopers will report to duty stations across Texas in the coming weeks and spend the first six months in on-the-job training. They started the 26-week training academy in June. Instruction covered more than 100 subjects, including counterterrorism, traffic and criminal law, arrest and control procedures, accident reconstruction, first aid and Spanish. They also received training in use of force, communication skills, firearms, driving, criminal interdiction, cultural diversity and physical fitness.
