(11-14-25) The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s 177th Academy Class graduated Friday from the Ohio State Highway Patrol Training Academy after 28 weeks of intense training.

One of the graduates is Lance Brunswick, of Maria Stein, who will join the Wapakoneta Post.

Director Andy Wilson, Ohio Department of Public Safety; and Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent, spoke during the graduation ceremony while Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel gave the commencement address. 

The Oath of Office was provided by Judge David A. Trimmer, Fairfield County Court of Common Pleas.

Trainees completed courses over the 28 weeks ranging from crash investigation, criminal and traffic law, detection of impaired drivers, firearms, physical fitness, self-defense and emergency vehicle operations.

There were five graduates who received honors for top performances in specific fields at the Training Academy. 

These honorees were:

  • Overall performance: Trooper Garrett T. Saleski, Toledo Post
  • Top performance in academics: Trooper Michael S. Suttles II, Hamilton Post
  • Top performance in driving: Trooper Christopher M. Brewer, Wooster Post
  • Top performance in firearms: Trooper Keaton R. Syverson, Chardon Post
  • Top performance in physical fitness: Trooper Travis M. Stratton, Defiance Post

The graduates will report to their new posts starting Sunday, Nov. 16. For the first 70 days, they will be in a field-training period under a veteran officer.