The Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) welcomed 11 new troopers into its ranks Friday during the 82nd Advanced Academy graduation ceremony. The event included remarks from Attorney General Austin Knudsen and MHP Colonel Kurt Sager, followed by a formal swearing-in and badge-pinning ceremony.
“I am proud to welcome 11 new troopers to the Montana Highway Patrol,” Knudsen said. “It was my honor to join Col. Sager, along with their families and friends, to swear in the troopers who completed several weeks of intensive training to get them to this spot today. I wish each of you safety and success as you begin your careers protecting and serving the people of Montana.”
Colonel Sager said the new officers are well-prepared to serve communities across the state. “Our new troopers are ready to hit the road and I am honored to watch them succeed,” Sager said. “I am confident they are prepared for the challenges they will face. I look forward to working with them throughout their careers with the patrol.”
The troopers completed 12 weeks of basic training at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy, followed by 14 weeks of advanced instruction at MHP’s Boulder facility. Training covered patrol operations, criminal law, firearms, emergency vehicle operations, and community engagement.
The newly commissioned troopers and their initial duty assignments are:
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William Bell – Superior
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Krystian Cruz Szyska – Kalispell
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Tristan Eldridge – Whitehall
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Georgianna Estell – Great Falls
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Connor Gaughn – Billings
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Mason Jaquith – Bozeman
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Ryan O’Neil – Billings
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Mayson Palen – Superior
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Brandon South – Columbus
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Dakota Talt – Livingston
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Nicholas Workman – Three Forks