The Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) has sworn in a new class of troopers ready to begin their career serving Nebraska. The members of NSP’s 64th Basic Recruit Class received their badges and took the oath of office today during a ceremony at the State Capitol.
“Graduation day is always special for our new troopers, their families, and the entire agency,” said Colonel John Bolduc. “Today marks the end of training camp, but it’s just the beginning of what will be a career full of opportunity for the troopers of Camp 64. We’re eager for them to continue their training in the field, and to start to immerse themselves into the communities they’ll serve.”
The eight members of Camp 64 hail from many communities across Nebraska. The class completed 22 weeks of intense training at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy in Grand Island. The training included extensive live-action, hands-on scenarios, as well as more than 1,000 hours of academic instruction. The new troopers will now continue their training in the field, pairing with veteran troopers for the field training process.
Many of the recruits received awards for their work during training at the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy. Recruit Kathleen Shriver, of Omaha, received the Captain Mark Williams Core Values Award. Recruit Michael Kleich, of Scottsbluff, was presented the R. J. Buchholz Physical Fitness Award. Recruit Brady Tophoj, of Lewellen, was honored with the D. R. Shearer Marksmanship Award. Recruit Tyler Urbanec, of Omaha, received the O. H. Witt Academic Achievement Award. Recruit Bailey Nesbitt, of Lincoln, was presented the Superintendent’s Leadership Award.
Governor Pete Ricketts and Colonel Bolduc provided remarks during today’s graduation ceremony, held in the rotunda of the Nebraska State Capitol. Secretary of State Bob Evnen administered the oath of office.
“You are joining the premiere law enforcement organization in the state of Nebraska,” Governor Pete Ricketts told the class during his graduation speech. “You have received the training that will prepare you to do your job, and it’s a special mission. The Nebraska State Patrol is an organization that exceeds and excels.”
The graduates of Camp 64 include:
Juan Garfio, of Minatare, who will serve in Alliance with Troop E.
Michael Kleich, of Scottsbluff, who will serve in Scottsbluff with Troop E.
Brady Tophoj, of Lewellen, who will serve in Ogallala with Troop D.
Camp 64 is the first NSP Basic Recruit Class of 2021. Eighteen new recruits are set to begin their journey to becoming a Nebraska State Trooper when Camp 65 begins on July 6, 2021.
NSP is also currently accepting applications for Camp 66, scheduled to begin in January 2022. Anyone interested in a rewarding career serving the people of Nebraska can apply at nsp.ne.gov/apply. Visit the Become A Trooper page on the NSP website to get more information about the hiring process, the training provided to recruits, and the benefits of becoming a trooper.