Tennessee – The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security welcomed 33 new Tennessee State Troopers during a graduation ceremony held at Hermitage Hills Baptist Church in Nashville. Commissioner Jeff Long and Tennessee Highway Patrol Colonel Matt Perry presided over the event, celebrating the achievements of Trooper Cadet Class 625.

The graduating cadets completed a rigorous 17-week training program that exceeded the standards set by the Tennessee Peace Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Commission. The class brought with it a wealth of experience, including a combined 86 years of prior military service. Among the graduates were two cadets with associate’s degrees, nine with bachelor’s degrees, and one with a master’s degree.

In addition to their training, the cadets demonstrated their commitment to public service by participating in the Special Olympics Torch Run held in Nashville, showing their support for the Tennessee Special Olympics.

Commissioner Long served as the keynote speaker and officially swore in the new troopers during the ceremony. “Today we celebrated the hard work and perseverance these cadets demonstrated as they prepared to join one of the finest law enforcement agencies in the country,” said Long. “I commend these new troopers for stepping up to protect and serve the people of our great state.”

Colonel Perry addressed the graduates with words of encouragement and a reminder of the serious responsibilities they now carry. “Becoming a Tennessee State Trooper is making a promise to the people of Tennessee that no matter the hour, no matter the weather, someone will be there to help,” Perry said. “You are now part of a tradition defined by honor, respect, and innovation.”

Trooper Dustin Garrett was named the top cadet of the class and received the Trooper Calvin Jenks Memorial Award for Excellence, honoring his leadership, work ethic, and academic achievement. The award commemorates Trooper Calvin Jenks, who was killed in the line of duty in 2007.

The department praised the newest troopers for their dedication and welcomed them into a proud legacy of service dating back to 1929.