DPS Graduates 109 State Troopers

AUSTIN – Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, Texas Public Safety Commission Chair Cynthia Leon, and the entire Public Safety Commission today were joined by Lieutenant Governor-Elect Dan Patrick as the department commissioned 109 men and women as Highway Patrol Troopers during the recruit graduation ceremony. Lieutenant Governor-Elect Patrick was the keynote speaker during the ceremony, which was held today in Austin.

“Texas is grateful for these men and women who have answered the call of duty, making the selfless commitment to protect and serve this great state,” said Lieutenant Governor-Elect Patrick. “They say the stars at night are big and bright deep in the heart of Texas. Texans sleep better under those stars because of the men and women who wear the Texas Tan of the DPS.”

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.

“Each of these dedicated recruits has earned the privilege to now be called a Texas State Trooper – a truly incredible achievement. You are among the select few who have what it takes to carry on the esteemed tradition of this department,” said Chair Leon. “I commend your selfless commitment to duty and thank you for your service to the great state of Texas.”

The troopers began the 23-week training academy in July. 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.

“Texas Highway Patrol Troopers work every day to fulfill the critical responsibility of protecting and serving the communities of Texas. Today, DPS is honored to welcome 109 new members of that elite force,” said Director McCraw. “These specially-trained men and women will serve as front-line officers dedicated to protecting Texas from crime and all threats facing our state – and we are grateful for their courage and commitment to selfless service.”

The department encourages individuals interested in joining the Texas Highway Patrol and becoming a state trooper to visit the DPS website, www.joindps.com, for more information.