HELENA – The Helena Civic Center celebrated the commissioning of 60 new officers from the Montana Law Enforcement Academy on Friday.
Montana Attorney General Tim Fox commended the class for choosing a profession that runs toward danger and not from it.
Many graduates and attendees wore green in honor of Trooper Wade Palmer, the Trooper shot in the line of duty outside of Missoula two weeks ago.
The attorney general also shared a message from Trooper Palmer’s wife, who said the graduates were joining a great law enforcement community.
Graduates were also recognized for their achievements in class.
Helena Police Officer, Megan Coleman was recognized for her scores in defensive tactics and demonstrating exceptional qualities of honor, pride, integrity, duty, loyalty, and service.
Coleman stated, “It was an eye opener; Trooper Palmer getting ambushed, but it also kind of brings you together to see the support of the community…the other officers. I mean, the law enforcement family is huge and amazing in Montana. We’re so fortunate to live in Montana and the support of the people.”
These 60 graduates will go to 39 different state, county, or tribal agencies.
-Reported by Christine Sullivan/MTN News