AUSTIN – Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, Texas Public Safety Commission Chair Cynthia Leon, and members of the Public Safety Commission (PSC) today were joined by Gov. Greg Abbott as the department commissioned 102 men and women as the state’s newest Highway Patrol Troopers during the recruit graduation ceremony. Gov. Abbott was the keynote speaker during the ceremony, which was held today in Austin.
“DPS troopers are part of a select group of officers with a proud history in Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “The troopers will leave here today with the opportunity to write a new chapter in the history of public service for the citizens of our state, and an opportunity to leave marks that will make a difference for generations to come. All of Texas joins me in thanking today’s graduates and their families for their service and their sacrifice in keeping Texas safe.”
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 you has worked tirelessly during the past six months – shaping and molding yourselves to earn the title of Texas Highway Patrol Troopers, and I want to congratulate you on your outstanding accomplishments while at the DPS Academy,” said PSC Chair Leon. “Today you have rightfully been given the tremendous honor and responsibility of serving the residents of this great state, and I am proud to welcome you into the DPS family.”
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.
“Today DPS is honored to add these 102 highly qualified and dedicated new officers to our law enforcement ranks, and we are deeply appreciative of the sacrifices each of you has already made to become Texas Highway Patrol Troopers,” said Director McCraw. “Having risen to the challenge of months-long training and instruction, these courageous men and women will be indispensable in carrying on the department’s mission to protect and serve Texas.”
As part of the recruits’ community service project, they raised more than $11,000 for a variety of efforts, including an elementary school and assisting DPS families in need.
DPS is currently accepting applications for recruit classes scheduled for 2016. The next application deadline is Jan. 27 for the class beginning July 10, 2016. To apply or for more information about joining the Texas Department of Public Safety, visit www.joindps.com.
In addition, DPS schedules recruiting events throughout the year. To find an event in your region, visit /trainingacademy/recruiting/recruitingEvents.htm#.
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