The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
42 troopers graduate from Highway Patrol
Three Lorain County residents were among the 42 who graduated Jan. 17 from the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s 166th Academy Class after 30 weeks of intense training.
Trooper Jordan L. Flecha, of Avon, was assigned to the Bucyrus District, Fremont Post.
Trooper Hannah G. Oehlke, of Elyria, was assigned to the Bucyrus District, Bucyrus Post.
Trooper Andrew B. Lash, of Sheffield, was assigned to the Milan Post.
Lash also received the top performance in academics.
Remarks were provided by Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted, Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Thomas J. Stickrath and Colonel Richard S. Fambro, Patrol superintendent, according to a news release.
The Oath of Office was issued by Fourth District Court of Appeals Judge Peter B. Abele, the release said.
“It was a distinct honor to help recognize the 42 cadets graduating from the Academy today as they commit to living a life of service with respect,” Husted said. “Joining the Ohio State Highway Patrol requires a commitment to service in every sense of the word, and I commend the men and women of the 166th graduating class for their dedication and perseverance.”
Courses completed by the 166th class included; crash investigation, criminal and traffic law, detection of impaired drivers, firearms, physical fitness, self-defense and emergency vehicle operations.
Trooper Emily S. Coakley of Zanesville, was selected as class speaker and thanked the Academy and cadet family members for being supportive during their training.
Each of the graduates will report to their posts on Jan. 19.
The graduates’ first 70-working days will be a field-training period under the guidance of a veteran officer, according to the release.
The new graduates are assigned to 24 of the Highway Patrol’s 59 posts.