Deadwood, S.D.- The South Dakota Highway Patrol is proud to announce Trooper Joseph Peterson has been named 2024 Trooper of the Year, and Inspector Kelly Oxender has been named 2024 Motor Carrier Inspector of the Year. These awards are one of the Highway Patrol’s highest honors and recognize the outstanding contributions of Trooper Peterson and Inspector Oxender in keeping South Dakota a safe place to live, work, visit, and raise a family. The awards were presented by Governor Larry Rhoden.
Trooper Peterson has been with the Highway Patrol nearly 11 years and is stationed in Sioux Falls. Trooper Peterson is well-respected due to his high drive, work ethic, teamwork, community involvement and steadfast dedication to the agency.
Inspector Kelly Oxender has been with the Motor Carrier Services division of the South Dakota Highway Patrol since 2022. Inspector Oxender is known as a hard-working Motor Carrier Inspector and a person of great character, integrity, and a team player.
“The South Dakota Highway Patrol is proud to recognize Trooper Peterson and Inspector Oxender for their remarkable work in 2024,” said Colonel Casey Collins, Superintendent of the Highway Patrol.
The awards were presented this week at the 13th Annual Highway Patrol Awards Ceremony in Deadwood, which featured Governor Larry Rhoden as the keynote speaker. “Our troopers and inspectors are on the front lines, keeping our state strong, safe, and free,” Governor Rhoden said. “They are held to high standards and represent the state well.”
Comments