LANSING — Michigan State Police (MSP) Director Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue announced recenlty that Michigan citizens will soon benefit from the services of 82 new troopers following the graduation of the 126th Trooper Recruit School. Gov. Rick Snyder served as the keynote speaker at the ceremony.

“Michigan is committed to public safety and I am confident that the graduates of the Michigan State Police 126th Trooper Recruit School will uphold the highest standards as they protect our families,” Snyder said. “We’re proud to salute our newest troopers and thank them for their courage, dedication and professionalism. We wish them all long, safe and fulfilling careers in the service of our great state.”

“Graduates as you accept the honor of becoming a Michigan State Police trooper, I ask that you embrace and appreciate the department’s 97-year tradition of providing service with excellence, integrity and courtesy,” said Etue. “The department demands and the public deserves nothing less than your very best performance every day.  You have a mission to serve and protect, and I expect you to keep sacred the public’s trust in you and in the department.”

The 126th Trooper Recruit School began on Jan. 5, when 115 prospective troopers reported to the MSP Training Academy. For the past 21 weeks, recruits received training in firearms, water safety, defensive tactics, patrol techniques, report writing, ethics, first aid, criminal law, crime scene processing and precision driving.

In order to be selected to attend the academy, all applicants had to pass a stringent selection process that included a physical fitness test, background investigation and hiring interview.

Graduating recruits will report to their respective MSP posts across the state for duty next week.

Graduates assigned to the Niles Post include Jeffery Baublit, of Saline; Brant Downing, of Sandusky; and Cameron Sweet, of Wayland.

The MSP is actively recruiting; interested candidates should visit www.michigan.gov/mspjobs for more information on how to apply.

The next trooper recruit school starts June 8.