The 111th recruit class to graduate from the Missouri Highway Patrol's Law Enforcement Academy will be known as the Bicentennial Class, as the state marks its 200th anniversary in a few weeks.
During the graduation ceremony Friday morning on the South Lawn of the state Capitol, Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe told the 29 new troopers they have chosen a challenging, dangerous, demanding and rewarding line of work.
"Starting the moment you take this oath, you have the ability to profoundly influence lives," Kehoe said. "Some people will look at you with disdain and contempt, but some will look at you with admiration and awe."
Kehoe also told the troopers that just because they are part of the Highway Patrol, that doesn't mean they shouldn't be part of the communities they will be serving.
"Although you're working full time in law enforcement, you can still volunteer for a local charity, coach a kids' team or (be a) scout leader," Kehoe said. "Pick something your community needs, and help with it and jump right in. When the need of you showing up in uniform arises, it can be comforting for those persons to know you are a real person. It may help diffuse a volatile situation and may add comfort to someone's life who's changed in seconds."
Kehoe also told the recruits they should never forget Missourians expect members of the Highway Patrol to be fair, gracious and professionally represented "by the finest, if not the best, law enforcement agency in the United States."
"We are all public servants, and I ask that you wear your uniform with pride and distinction," Kehoe said.
This year marks the 90th anniversary of the Missouri Highway Patrol.
Superintendent Col. Eric Olson said it's a challenge to find recruits for the Highway Patrol and all law enforcement agencies, but he believes the 29 new recruits will represent the patrol well.
"We had an opportunity to discuss the many challenges that face law enforcement in this country, and you mentioned that best way to enhance public safety is to make a positive impression on the public," Olson said. "You also talked about taking the time to listen and how that will go a long way to building successful relationships."
Olson noted the first recruit class in 1931 was told they must take time to visit with farmers and businessmen as well as answer questions from curious youth.
"While much has changed over the years, this piece of advice is just as valuable today as it was 90 years ago," Olson said.
The 111th Recruit Class reported to the academy Feb. 1 to begin the 25-week training to become a trooper with 43 members. The 29 new troopers will report to duty in their assigned troops Aug. 9.
"There were times we wanted to throw in the towel, but we stayed the course," Recruit Class Commander James Williams said. "We endured stress levels that some thought were unbearable. There will be days in our career where everything seems to be going downhill, but we need to expect the unexpected and have a plan. There is nothing about this career that is easy. You will have to maintain your professionalism, remaining firm yet compassionate."
At each recruit graduation, some recruits receive their diplomas from a family member who has served with the patrol. That occurred Friday when Samuel Ponder, of New Bloomfield, got his diploma from his father, Rocky. Samuel's first assignment will be in Boone County.
"My father-in-law, Sam's grandpa, was a trooper and retired as a corporal in 1994," Rocky said. "He had exposed me to the patrol, and I always thought of just the troopers, but I didn't realize the support staff serving in the patrol. I'm in the communications division, but Sam will be in the law enforcement side, like his grandfather. I'm very proud of him."