The Montana Highway Patrol commissioned nine new members on Thursday, from their 67th Advanced Academy.
The patrolmen who graduated will be heading to numerous locations around Montana.
Chief Deputy Attorney General Jon Bennion addressed the graduates at the ceremony, which was at the Delta Marriott Hotel in Helena.
Bennion reminded the graduates of how integral good character and commitment are when serving the public.
“The importance of the work that lies ahead of you cannot be overstated. So, set your direction with a positive attitude and strong spirit. Remember that each of you is now a person of influence simply by virtue of the badge on your chest and the trust the public will place in you. Montana’s law enforcement professionals are her true heroes,” Bennion said.
Members of the 67th academy class include:
Alex Becken
Hometown: Bozeman
Initial station: Townsend
Cale Bruun
Hometown: Missoula
Initial station: Bozeman
Ryan Daub
Hometown: Kalispell
Initial station: Helena
Christopher Ellis
Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia
Initial station: Deer Lodge
Timothy Haymond
Hometown: Columbia Falls
Initial station: Stanford
Lucas Herl
Hometown: Great Bend, Kansas
Initial station: Helena
Justin Knapp
Hometown: Bozeman
Initial station: Bozeman
Kayce Milligan
Hometown: Great Falls
Initial station: Anaconda
Talbot “Cade” Thompson
Hometown: Charlo
Initial station: Superior
At the ceremony, four awards were presented:
Physical Fitness Award
Timothy Haymond
Awarded for exemplary standards during the physical fitness curriculum in the 67th MHP Academy.
The Michael Haynes Memorial Grant
End of Watch: March 27, 2009
Christopher Ellis
This award was presented in loving memory of Trooper Michael W. Haynes – MHP 159 on behalf of his wife, Tawny Haynes.
Academic Award
Alex Becken
Awarded for exemplary standards during the academic curriculum in the 67th MHP Academy.
Camp Commander Award
Christopher Ellis
Awarded for exemplary standards and performance observed by the Camp Commanders in the 67th MHP Academy.
The Montana Highway Patrol is also accepting applications beginning March 6 for new Troopers. Interested individuals should visit MHP’s website. for details and apply by April 6. For more information about the Trooper selection process and requirements, contact MHP at 1-(877) 8-PATROL toll-free or (406) 444-3259.