HELENA – The Montana Highway Patrol commissioned 12 new troopers on Feb. 17, at the 61st Advanced Academy Graduation ceremony.

Wes Whitlatch, formerly of Lolo, haa been assigned to Superior in Mineral County.

Attorney General Tim Fox addressed the graduates at the event, which took place at the Radisson Colonial Hotel in Helena.

In his remarks, Attorney General Fox emphasized the importance of integrity for those who serve the public. “Integrity is one of the most important characteristics that any individual can possess. You’ll face some of the greatest challenges of your life while wearing this uniform. But no matter what life throws at you, face it with integrity, as that is a true sign of leadership,” Attorney General Tim Fox said.

At the ceremony, four awards were presented:

Physical Fitness Award

Lucas Knaff

Awarded for exemplary standards during the physical fitness curriculum in the 61st MHP Academy.

The Michael Haynes Memorial Grant

End of Watch: March 27, 2009

This grant is presented to: Jessica Knaff

Awarded in loving memory of Trooper Michael W. Haynes – MHP 159 by his wife, Tawny Haynes Norton.

Academic Award

Wade Palen

Awarded for exemplary standards during the academic curriculum in the 61st MHP Academy.

Camp Commander Award

Wes Whitlatch

Awarded for exemplary standards and performance observed by the Camp Commanders in the 61st MHP Academy.

Other members of the 61st academy class include:

Tyler DiGiovanna

Hometown: Sheridan, Montana

Initial Station: Billings

Mackenzie Gifford

Hometown: Great Falls, Montana

Initial Station: Roundup

Noah Heiller

Hometown: Sturgeon Lake, Minnesota

Initial Station: Sidney

Jessica Knaff

Hometown: Townsend, Montana

Initial Station: Lincoln

Lucas Knaff

Hometown: Shepherd, Montana

Initial Station: Billings

Billy Muñoz

Hometown: Missoula, Montana

Initial Station: Superior

Wade Palen

Hometown: Tucson, Arizona

Initial Station: Columbus

Noah Pesola

Hometown: New York Mills, Minnesota

Initial Station: Culbertson

Bryan Phipps

Hometown: Livingston, Montana

Initial Station: Billings

Eric Power

Hometown: Klamath Falls, Oregon

Initial Station: Sidney

Monte Richmond

Hometown: Kevin, Montana

Initial Station: Cut Bank