Austin Welcomes 138 New Texas Highway Patrol Troopers

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Newly sworn Texas Highway Patrol Troopers posed with pride during their graduation ceremony in Austin.

News Summary

On March 21, Austin, Texas celebrated the graduation of 138 new Texas Highway Patrol Troopers, marking a significant milestone for the state’s Department of Public Safety. The recruits completed rigorous training exceeding 1,200 hours, preparing them for real-world challenges on Texas highways. With a diverse class of graduates, the ceremony emphasized the graduates’ commitment to public safety as they officially start their duties across Texas on April 13.

Austin Celebrates the Graduation of New Highway Patrol Troopers

On March 21, in the charming city of Austin, Texas took a moment to honor and welcome a fresh wave of protectors dedicated to keeping the roads safe. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) proudly hosted a graduation ceremony for 138 new Texas Highway Patrol Troopers who successfully emerged from recruit Class C-2024. This jubilant event unfolded at the Great Hills Baptist Church, marking a significant milestone as the department celebrated its 177th graduating class.

Strength in Numbers

The graduation ceremony was a vibrant affair, with families, friends, and DPS dignitaries gathering to celebrate the inspiring accomplishment of these dedicated recruits. The ceremony emphasized the essence of what it means to be a Texas Highway Patrol Trooper, as Public Safety Commission Chairman Steven P. Mach took the stage to guide the event with heartfelt words of encouragement. He spoke to the crowd about how these Troopers are a beacon of strength, bravery, and comfort—a reassuring presence for Texans as they navigate everyday life.

Additionally, Colonel Freeman F. Martin from the DPS echoed similar sentiments, shining a light on the unique qualities that define a successful Trooper. With a long journey ahead of them and the responsibilities that come with the badge, these 138 graduates embody the characteristics that are crucial for maintaining safety on Texas highways.

A Competitive Selection Process

The path to Trooper was no easy feat. Out of a staggering 2,143 individuals who applied for this coveted position, only 179 were fortunate enough to receive an offer. There were a few stumbling blocks along the way. Of those who began their training on August 24, only 155 made it to the end, and it was the final 138 that celebrated their remarkable achievement after 30 weeks of rigorous training.

Training Beyond the Standard

These new Troopers underwent a rigorous training regimen that consisted of more than 1,200 hours of instruction, far surpassing the 736-hour requirement outlined by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). Their comprehensive training covered an array of critical topics, including criminal and traffic law enforcement, crash investigation techniques, crisis intervention strategies, and the essential use of force. But that’s not all—the recruits also learned Tactical Emergency Casualty Care, which provides life-saving skills in trauma assessment, bleeding control, and the treatment of shock. It’s all about being prepared for any situation.

Furthermore, their training included the Joint Field Training Exercise (JFTX), simulating real-world scenarios that Troopers face daily. This hands-on experience allows them to hit the ground running in their future roles, ready to tackle everything from routine traffic stops to more serious incidents on the highways of Texas.

Diversity on the Force

Diversity was clearly visible within the graduating class. Among the 138 new Troopers, there were 114 males and 24 females, with ages ranging from 21 to 54. This eclectic mix adds to the community’s representation and strength. Additionally, 45 graduates proudly bring their military veteran experience into the field, while 34 come with prior law enforcement backgrounds, enhancing their capability to serve the public effectively.

Language skills are also a strong point for this new class, with 76 graduates fluent in more than one language. This ability is significant in Texas, where a vast array of cultures and languages contributes to the rich tapestry of the state’s populace.

Ready for Duty

Exciting days lie ahead for these graduates, as they prepare to step into their new roles. The newly minted Troopers will officially report to their assigned duty stations across Texas starting April 13. With their commitment to serve and protect, the future looks bright for these remarkable individuals committed to making Texas a safer place for everyone on the roads.

As they don their uniforms and hit the streets, these new Troopers are ready to embody the very spirit of public service, ensuring that safety remains a top priority throughout the great state of Texas.