The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) proudly welcomed 44 new Troopers into its ranks on Wednesday, Oct. 28, during the graduation ceremony for Trooper Class 2026-B held at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre (MPAC) in Montgomery.
Surrounded by family members, loved ones, distinguished guests and Agency leadership, the graduates celebrated the culmination of months of rigorous training, determination and personal sacrifice. While their time at the ALEA Training Center has come to a close, their journeys in law enforcement is just beginning.
The ceremony marked another significant milestone in ALEA’s commitment to recruiting, training and retaining highly qualified law enforcement officers. Training for Class 2026-B began May 18 for uncertified candidates, while previously certified officers joined Aug. 24. Throughout their training, recruits were challenged physically, mentally and academically to prepare for the responsibilities of serving as ALEA Troopers.
The 44 graduates will serve across Alabama’s seven Highway Patrol Troops, including four assigned to ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division and one assigned to the Agency’s Protective Services Division. Their assignments support ALEA’s statewide mission to safeguard Alabama’s highways, waterways and the Capitol Complex.
Reflecting on the graduates’ journey during today’s ceremony, ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor, the highest-ranking law enforcement officer in the State of Alabama, encouraged the new Troopers to take pride in their accomplishments, remain committed to their oath and embrace the opportunities ahead.
“I remember seeing many of these men and women on their very first day of training, and I know some wondered whether they would make it to this moment,” Secretary Taylor said. “Today, they have proven they have the determination, discipline and commitment to succeed. They have earned their place in the ALEA family, and my hope is that this is the beginning of a long and rewarding career of service. As they move forward, I encourage each of them to remember the oath they have taken and the responsibility that comes with wearing this badge.”
ALEA’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Colonel Jeremy Burkett also recognized the graduates’ accomplishments and emphasized the importance of carrying the lessons learned during training into every interaction with the public.
“These 44 men and women have demonstrated the perseverance, discipline and dedication required to earn the title of ALEA Trooper,” Colonel Burkett said. “But earning the badge is only the beginning. Every traffic stop, every call for service and every encounter with the public is an opportunity to make a difference. I challenge each of them to lead with integrity, exercise sound judgment and never lose sight of the responsibility entrusted to them. Their actions will not only define their individual careers but also reflect the values and reputation of this Agency.”
Madison County Sheriff Kevin Turner served as the ceremony’s keynote speaker, delivering a powerful message about the responsibility of wearing the badge and the importance of treating every individual with dignity and respect.
“Treat every person the way that you would want to be treated. And by doing that, you give a little bit of respect, and you’re going to get that respect back,” Sheriff Turner said. “You may not get it back that day, you may not get it back that night, but you will get that little bit of respect back.”
Sheriff Turner reminded graduates that while academy training prepares officers to enforce the law, they must never lose sight of the human side of their profession.
“We get taught all these different things in the police academy, and we all know how to be cops. But let’s all remember that we are human beings, and that’s a human being that we’re dealing with out there on the street,” Sheriff Turner added.
The ceremony also recognized the families and loved ones whose sacrifices and support helped the graduates reach this milestone.
“Behind every graduate is a family or loved one who has made sacrifices of their own,” Secretary Taylor added. “Their encouragement and support have been instrumental in bringing these 44 Troopers to this moment, and that support will be just as important throughout their careers. To our families, thank you for standing beside them and for becoming part of our ALEA family.”
As Class 2026-B begins its next chapter, ALEA proudly welcomes these 44 Troopers into a tradition of service, integrity and dedication to protecting the people of Alabama.
