COLUMBUS – Today, the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s 177^th Academy Class graduated from the Ohio State Highway Patrol Training Academy after 28 weeks of intense training. Director Andy Wilson, Ohio Department of Public Safety; and Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent; provided remarks during the graduation ceremony. Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel delivered the commencement address to the 28 members of the Patrol’s 177^th Academy Class. Judge David A. Trimmer, Fairfield County Court of Common Pleas, issued the Oath of Office.

Courses completed by the 177^th class include crash investigation, criminal and traffic law, detection of impaired drivers, firearms, physical fitness, self-defense and emergency vehicle operations.

Trooper Cameron M. Miller, Georgetown Post, was selected as class speaker and thanked the Academy and family members for being supportive during their training.

Five graduates received special honors for top performance in various fields of study at the Training Academy. The honorees were:

• Overall performance – Trooper Garrett T. Saleski, Toledo Post
• Top performance in academics – Trooper Michael S. Suttles II, Hamilton Post
• Top performance in driving – Trooper Christopher M. Brewer, Wooster Post
• Top performance in firearms – Trooper Keaton R. Syverson, Chardon Post
• Top performance in physical fitness – Trooper Travis M. Stratton, Defiance Post

Graduates will report to their assigned posts beginning Sunday, November 16. The graduates’ first 70 working days will be a field-training period under the guidance of a veteran officer.

Editor’s Note: Academy Class Roster Attached