Nebraska State Patrol Graduates 73rd Recruit Class
June 18, 2026 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska State Patrol is proud to welcome seven new troopers, ready to serve in communities throughout the state. Members of the Nebraska State Patrol’s 73rd Basic Recruit Class were sworn-in today during a ceremony at the State Capitol in Lincoln.
“Today is the end of a long road and the beginning of an even greater one,” Colonel Bryan Waugh told the new troopers during today’s ceremony. “You have earned the right to wear this badge. Wear it with honor, serve with humility, protect with courage, and never forget the oath you swore this morning.”
The seven members of Camp 73 have completed 22 weeks of intense training, including extensive live-action training scenarios and rigorous academic instruction. Their training now continues in the field, pairing with veteran troopers in the field training process.
Governor Jim Pillen and Attorney General Mike Hilgers provided remarks during today’s graduation ceremony, which was held in the rotunda of the Nebraska State Capitol. Secretary of State Bob Evnen administered the oath of office.
“It’s so awesome you men have come together and said that’s what defines your camp and what defines you, is your team and your relationships that will never be broken,” said Governor Jim Pillen. “Thank you for serving all Nebraskans and for serving in the greatest place. We’re lucky we live in the greatest place in the history of civilization. I couldn’t be more proud of you.”
Outstanding performance in several areas of training was recognized with awards during the graduation ceremony. Recruit David Farmer, of Battle Creek, received the Superintendent’s Leadership Award and the Captain Mark Williams Core Values Award. The D.R. Shearer Marksmanship Award recipient was Recruit Seth Dvorak, of Scottsbluff. Recruit Rex Fell, of Haigler, was honored with the R.J. Buchholz Physical Fitness Award. The O.H. Witt Academic Achievement Award was presented to Recruit Sean O’Hearn, of Oconee.
“As a Nebraskan, I’m asking you to remember your obligation. When you are a trooper of the State Patrol, for however long your career goes, that you live up to the standards of this great institution,” said Attorney General Mike Hilgers. “And it’s going to take exactly what’s in your motto. If you act with integrity and act with discipline, you’ll do it.”
The graduates of Camp 73 are:
Name, Hometown, Badge, Duty Station
Seth Dvorak, Scottsbluff, 304,Scottsbluff
Khadario Earl, Lincoln, 305,Omaha
David Farmer, Battle Creek, 307, Norfolk
Rex Fell, Haigler, 319, North Platte
Sean O’Hearn, Oconee, 338, Scottsbluff
Hayden Thurnau, St. Paul, 339, Grand Island
Carson vonRentzell, Elmwood, 345, Waverly
NSP’s next recruit class, Camp 74, is scheduled to begin training on July 6, 2026. Anyone interested in a rewarding career serving the people of Nebraska can get information about the hiring process, the training provided to recruits, and the benefits of becoming a trooper by visiting www.NebraskaTroopers.com.