The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) on Friday welcomed 130 new Texas Highway Patrol Troopers from recruit Class B-2024 during a graduation ceremony in Austin, including Chisum High School graduate Ryan Graham.
Graham, son of newly elected Lamar County Constable – Precinct 2 Curtis Graham, will be stationed close to home in Greenville, Texas.
“We are so proud of our son and getting to witness him graduate and embark on a meaningful career as a Texas State Trooper, dedicating himself to serving and protecting the community,” said Curtis and wife, Stephanie. “His commitment to this noble profession is commendable, and this milestone marks the beginning of a journey filled with challenges and opportunities to make a positive impact.”
Graham was one of 164 Trooper Trainees selected out of 1,760 people who applied for the class and the 130 who successfully completed the entire 30-week academy to graduate.
During the 30-week in-resident Academy, Trooper Trainees receive more than 12-hundred hours of instruction. This exceeds the mandatory licensing requirement of 736 hours established by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). The comprehensive training comes from experts on various topics, including criminal and traffic law enforcement, crash investigation, crisis intervention, use of force, criminal investigations, communications, cultural diversity, fitness and wellness and emergency medical assistance.
“The last 30 weeks, your training officers have provided you with the skills you need,” said Commissioner Long. “Your classmates have given you the support you need. Now it’s up to you to take all of that and embark on this next phase as you join the ranks of the Texas Tan.”
Trooper Trainees also receive components of the Tactical Emergency Casualty Care training to include trauma assessment, bleeding control and treatment of shock. The training prepares them to work as a Highway Patrol Trooper anywhere in the state, including in remote areas and extreme terrains.
Trooper Trainees also receive components of the Tactical Emergency Casualty Care training to include trauma assessment, bleeding control and treatment of shock. The training prepares them to work as a Highway Patrol Trooper anywhere in the state, including in remote areas and extreme terrains.
Trooper Trainees conclude their rigorous training with what’s called the Joint Field Training Exercise (JFTX) – a culmination of scenarios and training events that simulate a potential day in the life of a Texas State Trooper. Utilizing the skills and knowledge obtained throughout the academy, Trooper Trainees participate in approximately 25 scenarios ranging from vehicle pursuits to compliant driver traffic stops. It finishes with a Legacy Run from DPS HQ to the State Capitol Peace Officer Memorial.
Here are some other class highlights:
- 112 males, 18 females
- Ages ranging from 21 to 45
- 47 military veterans
- 32 recruits with prior law enforcement experience
- 70 speak more than one language
The newly commissioned Troopers will report to their individual duty stations across Texas on Jan. 5.
“Recruit graduations are incredibly special for members of the Texas Department of Public Safety, and it is an honor to recognize the outstanding commitment, dedication and drive of these incoming Texas State Troopers,” said Chairman Mach. “The future of public safety is brighter because of these men and women.”
