A JOINT RESOLUTION honoring the 75th anniversary of the state highway patrol and paying tribute to those who have died in the line of duty.
Whereas, the General Assembly enacted legislation to establish a State Highway Patrol on March 18, 1929; and
Whereas, the first highway patrol training school began on May 20, 1929, at Camp Glenn near Morehead City; and
Whereas, of the 42 participants that completed the training, 37 were sworn in as members of the State Highway Patrol on July 1, 1929; and
Whereas, the State Highway Patrol currently consists of more than 1,700 uniformed officers and over 490 civilians; and
Whereas, for 75 years, the State Highway Patrol has stayed true to its mission of enforcing the State's motor vehicle laws and reducing the number of collisions on North Carolina's 78,000 miles of highways; and
Whereas, the officers of the State Highway Patrol have dutifully served the citizens of this State despite the danger they often encounter; and
Whereas, more than 50 officers have lost their lives in the line of duty, including George I. Thompson, the first State Highway Patrol officer killed; and
Whereas, on the 75th anniversary of the State Highway Patrol, it is important to recognize and acknowledge this organization for its invaluable service to the citizens of North Carolina; Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:
SECTION 1.  The General Assembly honors the memory of the members of the State Highway Patrol who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
SECTION 2.  The General Assembly congratulates the State Highway Patrol on its 75th anniversary and acknowledges those who have served this organization for their dedication and commitment in making North Carolina's highways safe.
SECTION 3.  This resolution is effective upon ratification.