SCHP graduates 38 new troopers

Posted

The South Carolina Highway Patrol held graduation ceremonies Monday for 38 troopers from its Highway Patrol Basic Classes 103 and 104.

These are the first classes to graduate under the new training program, which began in December 2017. The new training process "has enhanced the application process and offers more frequent, ongoing opportunities for applicants to begin their training to become a South Carolina state trooper," according to a release from the agency.

Gov. Henry McMaster thanked the graduates for choosing this career path and for their willingness to serve and protect the state.

“It is with great appreciation and pride that I look at you because the Highway Patrol is usually the most visible of all the enforcement agencies,” said McMaster. “I just wonder what it would be like in South Carolina if this room were empty today, if we did not have the men and women who were willing to do what you are willing to do.”

The graduation of Basic 103 and 104 brings the total number of troopers in South Carolina to 785.

Another 47 prospective troopers are currently in training.

Basic 103 and 104 include 29 prior-certified officers and nine troopers who are new to the law enforcement profession.

“These 38 new troopers join the Highway Patrol at an exciting time when we are making advances in technology; expanding efforts to fight drug trafficking in our state; and training and equipping our troopers to face the new realities in the world of law enforcement,” said SCDPS Director Leroy Smith.

Troopers are assigned to areas based upon population, calls for service and the number of licensed drivers/registered vehicles in an area.

SCHP Col. Chris Williamson encouraged the graduates to remember their Oath of Office long after graduation day.

“We act with the authority afforded us by the people we have pledged to serve and protect,” Williamson said. “Consider your oath daily as you go about conducting your law enforcement activities. Reflect on your core values of Selfless Service. Integrity and Responsibility.”

Special awards from the Basic Classes 103 and 104 classes include:

Colonel P.F. Thompson Outstanding Achievement Award: For the trooper who displays the character and dedication symbolic of former Highway Patrol Colonel P.F. Thompson, the longest serving Patrol commander. Basic 103: Jason M. Blaney, Hometown: Tampa, Fla., Area of Assignment: Troop 1, Post C (Lexington); Basic 104: Matthew Krieger, Hometown: Fort Mill, SC; Area of Assignment: Troop 5/Post D (Horry).

Captain Cecil Dilworth Marksmanship Award: Presented to the trooper who demonstrated the best marksmanship during firearms training. Basic 103: William B. Allen, Hometown: Lexington, SC; Area of Assignment: Troop 1, Post D (Richland); Basic 104: Jordan S. Vaughn, Hometown: Galax, Va. Area of Assignment: Troop 1, Post D (Richland).

Israel Brooks Jr. Physical Fitness Award: Presented to the trooper who excelled on the physical training test and each day during the early morning exercises. Basic 103: Jason M. Blaney, Hometown: Tampa, Fla., Area of Assignment: Troop 1, Post C (Lexington); Basic 104: Jordan S. Vaughn, Hometown: Galax, Va., Area of Assignment: Troop 1, Post D (Richland).