Governor Bill Lee, Department of Safety and Homeland Security Commissioner Jeff Long, and Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) Colonel Matt Perry officially welcomed 23 new state troopers to the ranks on Thursday, June 18.

The graduation ceremony for THP Class 98 was held at the Hermitage Hills Baptist Church, where Governor Lee served as the keynote speaker.

The graduating class, composed of 21 men and two women, successfully completed 17 weeks of intensive training. The diverse cohort brings a wealth of experience to the department. Nine of the graduates are military veterans, representing a combined 61 years of military service. Five troopers hold bachelor’s degrees, and two possess associate’s degrees.

State officials commended the new troopers for their dedication and emphasized the weight of their new roles.

“Today’s graduates have earned the privilege of serving the people of Tennessee in one of the most well-respected law enforcement agencies in the nation. Their hard work, resilience, professionalism, and commitment to service reflect the high standards of the Tennessee Highway Patrol.”

— Commissioner Jeff Long

Colonel Matt Perry reminded the class that their training was just the foundation for the road ahead. “Graduation is not the end of your preparation. It is the beginning of your service,” Perry said, charging the new troopers to “serve with humility” and “protect with integrity.”