Nashville, Tennessee --- The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) has added 70 new Troopers to its ranks. Commencement ceremonies were held today in Nashville marking the completion of THP's Trooper Cadet Class 404.

The 65 men and 5 women graduated after attending a 16-week, intensive training school. They will immediately put their law enforcement skills to work as they report to their assigned counties to begin duties as a Trooper. In addressing the graduates, Deputy to the Governor Dave Cooley urged the new Troopers to follow three guiding principles of public service: integrity, responsibility and respect.

Tennessee Department of Safety Commissioner Fred Phillips said, "Each of these men and women will play a vital role in the safety and general welfare of the citizens of Tennessee."

"Through highly trained law enforcement professionals, our state is better equipped to fight crime and create safe communities statewide. I am confident the 70 Troopers who graduated today will beneficially impact each of the communities they serve," added Commissioner Phillips.

The training underwent by each Cadet consists of a highly specialized curriculum encompassing all areas of law enforcement for which the Tennessee Highway Patrol is responsible. Cadets received both field and classroom instruction and were evaluated through written and skills examinations. THP Colonel Lynn Pitts said Troopers face many dangerous situations on a daily basis and proper training is essential to the development of a qualified law enforcement officer.

"Throughout the past 16 weeks each Cadet has demonstrated the skills, professionalism and integrity necessary to successfully perform the duties of a Tennessee Highway Patrol Trooper," added Colonel Pitts.