Measure Celebrates 95th Anniversary of First Graduating Class of Troopers
A resolution Assembly Democrats Wayne DeAngelo, Raj Mukherji, Eric Houghtaling and Joann Downey sponsored to honor the New Jersey State Police recently was signed by the governor.
“The men and women of the New Jersey State Police make up one of the most prestigious law enforcement organizations in the world,” said DeAngelo (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “From the kidnapping of the Lindbergh baby to 2015’s papal visit to the many day-to-day interactions for which they get not nearly enough credit, the State Police consistently have performed with great integrity and professionalism for 95 years.”
“The State Police work hard to ensure public safety and protect the rights of the people of New Jersey,” said Mukherji (D-Hudson). “It is fitting that we honor them and applaud their commitment to integrity and professionalism.”
“In addition to responding to emergencies and patrolling the roads with distinction, the State Police conduct youth training and community outreach programs that strengthen their relationship to the people of New Jersey,” said Houghtaling (D-Monmouth). “Troopers are invested in making New Jersey a better, safer place for all of our residents, so it’s only right to reflect on the history of the State Police and appreciate the hard work it took to establish and build up the institution we have today.”
“Most members of the public may interact with the State Police only on New Jersey’s highways or in the midst of a disaster, but as the daughter of a trooper, I saw the kinds of sacrifices those who serve with the State Police must make every day,” said Downey (D-Monmouth). “These men and women leave home knowing that they may not ever come back, but their dedication to service supersedes that fear. That sense of selflessness, which has been at the foundation of the State Police since its inception, deserves high praise from all of us.”
The measure (AJR-126) commemorates the establishment and service of the State Police and celebrates the 95th anniversary of its first graduating class. It received unanimous approval from both houses of the legislature before being signed by the governor on Friday.
The State Police, founded in 1921 with 81 troopers on horseback and motorcycle, is now made up of 2,600 enlisted and sworn members and 1,200 professional staff.