History of the Florida Highway Patrol

Laying the Groundwork for State Law Enforcement

On November 23, 1931, under the administration of Governor Doyle E. Carlton, and at the request of the Chairman of the State Road Department, Attorney General Cary D. Landis ruled it shall be the duty of the State Road Department to maintain the state roads and enforce the laws enacted to preserve its physical structure.  As a result of this ruling, the state road department hired 12 weight inspectors who were placed under the supervision of the division engineers.  This was the beginning of state law enforcement in Florida.

 

New Division of Traffic Enforcement by State Officers

On April 26, 1934, the Attorney General ruled that the Traffic Enforcement Division could enforce the Florida Motor Vehicle Law’s provisions for the general safety of the motoring public. On May 1, 1934, the Traffic Enforcement Division was instructed to enforce all Florida traffic laws. Police authority was derived from appointment as deputy sheriffs in the counties where they were assigned. The traffic inspectors patrolled the state highways, enforcing traffic regulations in a manner that won the general public’s approval.  Thirty motorcycles and 10 Ford Phaetons were the equipment used by this organization. No radios were available at this time.  The tops of the Phaetons were never raised, cold, hot, rain or shine.  During this period, Florida was growing and becoming a tourist destination.   The population in 1935 was 1,606,842; in 1940, it was 1,897,414.

 

Kirkman Appointed Chief of the State Road Department

In July 1936, Chairman of the State Road Department, C.B. Treadway, announced the appointment of Major H.N. Kirkman as Chief of the State Road Department, Traffic Enforcement Division. Mr. Treadway stated that H.N. Kirkman was appointed because of his experience in army organization, the movement of army traffic, and his background in engineering.  H.N. Kirkman’s first military service was in 1917 when he entered the Army as a private.  He was discharged as a First Lieutenant at the end of World War I.   During World War II, he served in Europe, constructing bomber stations, fortresses, and warehouses.  He served overseas during both wars for a total of 38 months.  He was decorated with the Legion of Merit for his service in World War II.  Interestingly, Army Major Kirkman was the engineer supervising the construction of the Palatka Memorial bridge over the St. Johns River.

 

Governor Abolished Traffic Enforcement Division 

In a cost-saving move, Governor Fred P. Cone abolished the Traffic Enforcement Division of the State Road Department in 1937 in the first five minutes of his inaugural speech. This group of men, referred to as the “Old Scholtz Patrol,” performed valuable services to Florida residents during their years of service.

 

The Legislature created the Florida Highway Patrol.

Under pressure from the American Legion, Jaycees, and other civic organizations, the 1939 session of the Florida Legislature passed Chapter 19551, Florida Statutes, creating the State Department of Public Safety and the Division of the Florida Highway Patrol. The new Department was placed under the control of Governor Cone and the Chairman of the State Road Department, Arthur B. Hale. Funds for the Department’s operations came from the sale of driver’s licenses. Richard Ervin was the attorney for the State Road Department, and his supervisor was Arthur B. Hale.  Chairman Hale authorized Mr. Ervin to draft legislation to create a State Department of Public Safety, giving birth to the Florida Highway Patrol and a driver’s license division, and to lobby for the passage in the 1939 Session of the Legislature.  Mr. Ervin was the author of the legislation that created the Department of Public Safety and the Florida Sheriff’s Bureau, which paved the way for creating the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

On September 28, 1939, the first meeting of the executive board of the new Department of Public Safety was held with the following members and officials in attendance: Honorable Arthur B. Hale, Chairman of the State Road Department, and Honorable D. W. Finely, State Motor Vehicle Commissioner. It was determined that sufficient funds had accrued from driver’s license fees to set up the Highway Patrol.

The Leaders Who Started the Traditions

W.F. Reid was employed as Director of the new Department on October 1, 1939, and was directed to organize the Florida Highway Patrol. He was further required to hire a Captain of the Highway Patrol to assist in the work. Mr. H.N. Kirkman was appointed Captain of the new Florida Highway Patrol because of his experience as a Major in the U.S. Army and Chief of the “Old Scholtz Patrol.” By this action, Captain Kirkman became the first commander of the Florida Highway Patrol.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Beginnings of a Tradition

On November 1, 1939, the first training school began in Bradenton with 40 students at the Manavista Hotel. Captain George Mingle of the Ohio State Patrol directed the school. Five weeks later, 32 out of the 40 students completed the training and were assigned patrol duty in various parts of the state. Their income during school was $75 per month for room and board.  The salary was good for the times at $125 per month upon graduation.

On November 30, 1939, the Bradenton Chamber of Commerce threw a big barbecue at the Bradenton Country Club to honor the new troopers and their instructors.  The host of the celebration was H.S. Rumsey, the Chamber President.  The guests included the Public Safety Department Director of Alabama, T. Weller Smith, five other Florida Sheriffs, Major, Mrs. Kirkman, and their son.

 

1^st FHP Graduation

December 6, 1939, was Graduation Day.  Florida’s Secretary of State, R.A. Gray, administered the oath to the 32 graduating troopers.  By this time, the men were fully equipped and in complete uniform.  Major Kirkman quipped that this was the first time he had ever had a large troop of men under his command who did not complain about the food or the hotel service.  He gave credit to the Manavista Hotel and praise for the hospitality shown to his men. Graduation Day included music, humorous entertainment from the Pines Tavern in Bradenton Beach, and a bingo game.  The next day, 32 new troopers would leave for their assigned territory.  Trooper John McClung, assigned to the Bradenton Station, began work that day, assisted by Trooper Jay Hall, who made the Highway Patrol’s first arrest.  He arrested John Thompson from Parrish on a D.U.I. charge.

Class of 1939

Chris Anderson, Tobe Bass, L.W. Brazell, Collier Brown, Clyde Carlan, Frank Clark, Reid Clifton, Albert G. Faucett, Edwin W. Ferrell, J.G. Gallop, E.G. Godwin, Joe W. Hagans, Jay Hall, Clinton W. Hancock, A.A. Hendry, Olin Hill, Charles W. Ingram, Bodie Jordan, Homer J. Klay, Fitzhugh Lee, Cecil Lord, Carl W. Mahaffey, Howard C. Martin, Tony Maseda, Otis McArthur, John McClung, T.J. Reilly, Stuart A. Senneff, J. Wallace Smith, Frank Tidwell, George W. Watts, Charles A. Yonally.

 

Patrol Cars and Motorcycles in 1939

In 1939, patrolmen were issued specially equipped 1940 Model Ford V8s (85-HP), and fourteen were assigned Model 84 Harley-Davidson motorcycles.  The black and cream, two-door Ford coaches had sirens and bulletproof windshields.  In the early years, there was no form of radio communication.  Patrolmen would make regular stops at service stations or grocery stores along their routes to call in for assignments, reports of wrecks, and to get messages. According to John McClung, the 1^st night in Bradenton was “long hours, no radios, many motorcycles, and on your own.”

1940 Ford Deluxe V8

Harley Davidson Motorcycle

 

The First Uniform

In 1939, the FHP uniform was forest green whipcord with orange bands on the grey Stetson 3X Beaver (Campaign hat) and a black 3-inch Sam Browne belt.  There was an orange and blue shoulder patch on the left shoulder, with silver collar ornaments.  FHP was on the left lapel, and a wheel with wings was attached to the right lapel. The collar ornament design resembled the Ohio State Highway Patrol car insignia.  The original insignias had a broken spoke in the wheel, the origin of the Broken Spoke Club. Our uniforms and ornaments originated with the military.  Our original Stetson hat first appeared on the scene during the Civil War. It was beige in color, rounded on top instead of creased down the middle and worn by the officers of the Union Army.  The Confederate Army wore the same hat, except they were grey.

 

 

Early Weapons of the Patrol

1939, the first weapons were the Smith and Wesson Model 10 and 37, and the Colt Official Police in .38 special. Around 1975, the Patrol transitioned to the Colt Trooper I, II, III, Pythons, and Smith and Wesson model 686 chambered in .357 magnum.

The First Anniversary

By the end of 1940, the first full year of operation, there were 59 patrolmen. The first year of activity included 154,829 hours of patrol time, 1,000 accidents investigated, 29,860 hours at the station, 127 motorists killed, 1,938,564 miles patrolled, 1,132 persons injured, and 4,836 motorists arrested.

 

 

Filling the Ranks

The second FHP recruit class was held in Tallahassee from July to August 1940. The recruits spent six weeks training at Caroline Brevard Elementary School and were housed in the Cherokee Hotel, which was located in downtown Tallahassee.

 

New Leader, More Recruits

Governor Spessard Holland appointed Jesse J. Gilliam to Director of the State Department of Public Safety on January 20, 1941, after Kirkman left. During his administration, Gilliam was authorized by the governor and the cabinet to conduct a third recruit class held in Lakeland and graduate 82 new officers.

 

Three Divisions of the Patrol

In May 1941, the Executive Board of the Department of Public Safety recommended that Director Gilliam divide the patrol into six districts, which made up the three divisions, designed as Northern (District 1 Chipley and District 2 Lake City), Central (District 3 Bartow and District 4 Deland) and Southern (District 5 Ft. Myers and District 6 Ft. Lauderdale), and with each commanded by a Lieutenant. Since there were still no district offices, records were kept in Tallahassee from each daily report of activity mailed to headquarters.

 

Director Gilliam Recreated the Department

At that time, the Driver’s License Division was under the Motor Vehicle Commissioner but was placed unofficially under Director Gilliam’s supervision upon the appointment of the new Motor Vehicle Commissioner. Acting at the request of the Governor, Director Gilliam contacted the Legislative Committees of the State Junior Chamber of Commerce and the American Legion to draw up a bill to be presented to the 1941 Session of the Legislature, placing the Driver’s License Division in the Department of Public Safety.

 

Patrol Begins a New License Exam

In September 1941, Florida instituted a driver’s license examination program. Before the adoption of the program, all that a person needed to do to drive a vehicle legally was to fill out an application and pay a fee to the county judge. The new examinations were conducted by thirty patrolmen, who also maintained their regularly assigned patrol duties.

 

Off to War

In 1942, with the U.S. becoming involved in World War II, the Patrol lost many members who enlisted in the military. FHP was left with a force of less than 100 patrolmen. Those who remained were kept busy escorting military convoys and gasoline tankers. Patrolmen also aided the FBI in April 1942 with raids on the east coast of Florida.

 

Supply Shortage

During Director Gilliam’s administration, World War II was in progress, and textile mills used all the green wool for military uniforms. Mr. Gilliam selected the army officers’ pink material for the uniform trousers and britches.

In 1943, the Patrol’s uniform blouse was an olive drab whipcord with silver buttons bearing the state seal, a patch on the left shoulder (the orange emblem with the word “Florida” spelled out), silver collar ornament “F.H.P.” on the left lapel and the “Winged Wheel” ornament on the right, signifying traffic. The uniform was completed with a badge, chain, whistle, army pink trousers, a one-inch black stripe from waist to hem, black riding britches, and a pair of black plain-toed riding boots. Instructions were to wear riding britches and boots each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until the forest green uniforms were phased out. Also, part of the uniform was the graphite blue Stetson hat, Sam Browne 3” gun belt, handcuff, and cartridge cases. Changes to the uniform included a new holster, commonly known as the “cross draw,” resting on the left hip. This type of holster was selected for the officer’s protection because it is out of reach for persons under arrest who are being transported to jail in the front seat of the patrol vehicle.

Other materials were in limited supply during the war years. As a result, instead of replacing shoes, they would be repaired and returned to the patrolmen to wear again. Gasoline was rationed. Tires were made of synthetic rubber, which came apart at high speeds, creating an additional risk for patrolmen doing their jobs.

 

Calling All Cars

The Patrol radio communication system began operating in 1943 with the installation of a new radio system. By the end of 1944, there were 13 stations in operation in the state, with mobile units in all patrol cars.  Florida was one of the first States to use this type of equipment.  The Cuba-Florida hurricane in October 1944 was a testament to FHP’s communication system. The system provided only communication from some sections within the storm-swept areas. The Patrol’s mobile units continued to operate and prevented the loss of lives and other catastrophes following such storms.

 

Home from the War and a New Position

Jesse J. Gilliam resigned as Director of the Department of Public Safety effective August 15, 1945, and Captain I. Olin Hill was designated Acting Director pending the return of H. Neil Kirkman from the war. By a unanimous vote of the Executive Board of the Department of Public Safety in 1945, Retired Army Lt. Col. H. Neil Kirkman was elected Director of the Department of Public Safety, a position he held for 24 years.

 

A Welcome Benefit

In 1945, the Florida Legislature approved a measure that provided retirement benefits for members of the Patrol after 20 years of service.

 

Helping the Florida American Legion of Boys/Girls State

Troopers annually participate in the Florida American Legion of Boys and Girls State sessions. High school students across Florida learn government by creating a mythical state by electing public officials on local, county, and state levels and then carrying out the duties of these respective offices. The sessions aim to bring to the youth of Florida an understanding of the fundamental principles of American government. Florida Boys State began in 1945, and Girls State began in 1946. A continued tradition that carries on with members of the Patrol.

 

 

 

Release of Public Information

In the fall of 1946, Governor Millard Caldwell requested that Col. Kirkman provide copies of all the patrolmen’s activities to him and the Cabinet at all future Executive Board meetings. He also suggested that this information be given to the news media for publication to the general public and displayed at all the state and county fairs. The first exhibit was at the Florida Citrus Exposition in Winter Haven, Florida, in February of 1947.

 

Creation of an Institute

At the recommendation of Director Kirkman in 1947, the Executive Board selected “Florida Traffic Safety Institute” as the official name of the FHP training school.

 

FHP Goes to Washington

At the specific request of the Metropolitan Police Department of the District of Columbia, Captain Tobe Bass and Patrolman S.R. Walker were invited to attend the 1949 inaugural ceremonies for President Harry S. Truman. They had previously been assigned to President Truman during his visits to Florida.

 

Growing in Numbers

The Florida Highway Patrol started the 1950s with 171 patrolmen tasked with ensuring safety on the state’s highways.

 

On the Move

The Academy was moved to Eglin Air Force Base in 1950, and the training expanded to eight weeks.

 

Continued Growth

In 1951, the Florida Legislature authorized the expansion of the Patrol to 300 patrolmen and raised their salaries to $275 a month. However, the lack of funds kept the department from employing all 300 people. Two hundred one troopers were working at the end of 1952.

 

Introducing the Troops

The 1950s was a decade marked by the creation of “Troops.” In 1952, the Patrol realigned divisions and designated the new areas called Troops A, B, C, D, E, and Headquarters. Troop F was added in 1955, and Troop K was added in 1956. Troops G, H, and I (I was the Weights troop, which was phased out in 1982) were added in 1957. Troop L wouldn’t be formed until 1960.

Troop A

Bordered by Alabama on the north and the Gulf of Mexico on the south, Troop A consists of 10 northwest Florida Counties.  Bay, Calhoun, Escambia, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton and Washington.  Troop A Headquarters is located in Panama City, Bay County, Florida.  Having been part of the northern district and later the western district, Troop A was formed on December 23, 1952.

Troop B

In the early 40s, Troop B was known as the Northern Division of the Florida Highway Patrol and comprised seventeen counties.  In July 1957, Troop B was reduced to 11 Counties:  Hamilton, Columbia, Baker, Union, Bradford, Alachua, Levy, Dixie, Gilchrist, Lafayette, and Suwannee.   Today, Troop B encompasses 9 Counties:  Hamilton, Suwannee, Columbia, LaFayette, Dixie, Gilchrist, Alachua, Levy, and Marion. The Troop B Headquarters is located in Columbia County.

 Troop C

1939 Troop C was part of the Central Division of the Florida Highway Patrol.  Its Headquarters was located in the State Road Department building in Bartow.  In 1951, the Headquarters was relocated to Lakeland at Lodwick Airport.  Troop Headquarters is now located in Tampa, Hillsborough County.  Troop C encompasses 7 Counties: Citrus, Sumter, Hernando, Pasco, Polk, Pinellas, and Hillsborough.

Troop D

Troop D was first formed in 1950 under the supervision of Captain Clyde Carlan.  Troop D encompasses Orange, Lake, Seminole, Osceola, Brevard, and Volusia counties with headquarters in Orlando.  This area was formerly designated the Fourth District of the Central Division.  The first station in Troop D was opened in early 1949 in Melbourne.  In November 1956, a new Patrol Station became operational in Deland under the command of Lieutenant H.A. Weaver.  In February 1958, Lieutenant Weaver was promoted to Captain and took command of Troop D.  Troop D Headquarters is now located in Orlando, Orange County.

 

 

Troop E

Troop E, located in the metropolitan lower east coast of the state, had its roots as the headquarters of the Southern Division of the Florida Highway Patrol.  Originally located within the Broward County courthouse in Fort Lauderdale, the headquarters was moved to Miami in early 1947. Troop E encompasses 2 Counties: Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. The first Troop Commander for the Southern Division was Captain Stuart Senneff.  He took command in 1941 when the Patrol divided the State into three geographical/operational areas.   Troop E Headquarters is located in Miami-Dade County. 

Troop F

In January 1955, Troop F was formed, and Bradenton was designated Troop F Headquarters.  The first FHP training school was held in Bradenton in November 1939.  Troop F formed the first FHP Auxiliary Unit in the state.  Troop F encompasses 10 Counties: Manatee, Hardee, Highlands, Sarasota, DeSoto, Glades, Charlotte, Lee, Hendry and Collier.  Troop F Headquarters is located in Lee County.

 

Troop G

On January 1, 1957, Troop G began operations with 34 uniformed men.  Captain C.W. Hancock commanded the troop headquartered in Palatka. Troop G encompasses 9 Counties: Nassau, Baker, Union, Bradford, Clay, Duval, St. Johns, Putnam and Flagler.  Troop G Headquarters is now located in Duval County.

 

Troop H

In March 1957, what had been known as the Headquarters Section was officially designated Troop H.  Headquarters for Troop H is in Tallahassee, Leon County.  Troop H encompasses 8 Counties:  Gadsden, Liberty, Franklin, Wakulla, Leon, Jefferson, Madison and Taylor.  The Troop Headquarters building was completed in 1966 and is still used today.

 

Troop I

Troop I- the Weights Troop of the Florida Highway Patrol began when the State Road Department employed a group of men as weight inspectors.  In 1934, they were also assigned traffic duties.  In 1937, traffic enforcement was abolished. However, a group of these men continued to function as weight inspectors.  In 1946, this operation was conducted under the Florida Highway Patrol.  In 1957, the Patrol got additional manpower and a pay raise, with starting salaries increasing from $275 to $325 monthly and additional rank.  On January 1, 1981, the weights division was disbanded. They were assigned to the uniformed division of the Patrol.  From 1981 to 2011, The Department of Transportation continued commercial vehicle enforcement with Motor Carrier Compliance Officers.

 

Senate Bill 2160, passed by lawmakers during the 2011 legislative session, placed commercial vehicle licensing, registration, fuel permits, and enforcement all under the purview of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.  A total of 267 DOT officers statewide merged with FHP and became Troopers on July 1, 2011, and subsequently took a 40-hour transition course that addressed policy and procedural issues.  Today, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement is comprised of 2 Troops.  Troop I – North Florida Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) Troops A, B, G, and H.  Troop J – South Florida CVE Troops C, D, E, F and L.

Troop K

Since the Turnpike traveled through several troops, it was decided that the cost of patrolling the Turnpike could not be quickly established.   Money reimbursed to the various Troops and their Districts by the Turnpike Authority to handle this function would require tight control.  In 1956, the Legislature mandated that the Florida Highway Patrol patrol the Turnpike.  Those services would be reimbursed through revenue generated by tolls, and a new troop, Troop K, was formed and designated to Patrol the Sunshine State Parkway.  In October 1956, Captain Clinton E. Taylor became the first Troop Commander.  Troop K encompasses C, D, B, G, L, and E.  It also includes the Polk Parkway, Suncoast Parkway, and the First Coast Expressway.

 

 

Troop L

In December 1960, Troop L was formed and headquartered in Palm Beach County.  The first commander was Captain J. W. Hagans.  Troop L encompasses 6 Counties:  Indian River, Okeechobee, St. Lucie, Martin, Palm Beach, and Broward.

Troop M

In 1967, the Legislature passed a law requiring mandatory automobile inspections. The Department of Public Safety was designated as the agency to supervise the program. Captain C. C. Reynolds was the first commander of Motor Vehicle Inspection. The Department assigned forty men to Captain Reynolds, and the program began on June 1, 1968. Col. H. N. Kirkman’s FHP 1 was the first motor vehicle inspected in Tallahassee. It was Troop M’s responsibility to supervise the operation of all inspection stations throughout the state. This included both county-operated stations and private stations. Troop M was phased out in 1981.

 Troop Q

The Investigations Section of the Patrol was created in 1952 due to the problems created by civilian driver license examiners accepting bribes from applicants receiving driver licenses. At the end of the investigation, the Attorney General recommended to Col. Kirkman that an Investigation Section should be established within the Department. As a result, Sgt. A.E. Reddick was appointed the first Chief Investigator.

Troop Q is headquartered in Tallahassee, Leon County, and encompasses the entire State.  Troop Q consists of a Northern Section and a Southern Section.  Troop Q is FHP’s Bureau of Criminal Investigations and Intelligence.

 

From Patrolman to Trooper

The classification of patrolman was changed in 1952. After 1952, all officers were classified as “Patrolman” during their probationary period only. When this period was completed, they were automatically designated as “Trooper.”

 

Staying in Touch

The Patrol installed the first statewide teletype network in 1953. This consisted of two circuits with seven machines on each circuit, providing fourteen terminals throughout the state. This network permitted the sending and receiving messages between the troops and general headquarters.

FHP Teletype Operator James Tubbs (center) shows Tallahassee City Police Wilton Dozier (left) and Billy Hudson (right) how to use the Teletype switching system for broadcasting messages to key Florida cities and relay through the nation.

 

Sign of the Times

In 1953, Florida erected its first-speed limit sign on a highway.

 

How Fast Was I Going?

Sgt. B.J. Barnett and Cpl. G.B. Stafford tested the first FHP radar in Miami on the Tamiami Trail in 1954.

 

Uniforms for Non-Sworn

In 1955, Col. Kirkman directed FHP to provide uniforms to female dispatchers, clerks, and secretaries who served in the Patrol. The uniform included a London Fog trench coat, Life Stride low-heeled black pumps, and a black shoulder bag. The uniforms were phased out in the 1970s due to budget constraints.

 

Academy Moves

The Academy moved to Tallahassee in 1955, where members of the 12th recruit class trained in old army barracks at Dale Mabry Field. Recruit training was expanded to eight weeks of academic and physical exercise.

 

Seal of Approval

On January 31, 1956, Governor LeRoy Collins presented to the Cabinet a seal with the Florida flag on it to be adopted by the Cabinet and to be used on all state-owned vehicles. Col. Kirkman asked permission to reformat the seal on the Florida Highway Patrol cars to provide a more distinctive appearance. Col. Kirkman gave the responsibility to Lt. C. W. Keith, and he prepared a mock-up for Col. Kirkman. Col. Kirkman presented it to the Governor and the Cabinet, who approved it on February 7, 1956. This seal is still being used on the FHP vehicles. These and all other seals used on the Patrol’s vehicles are displayed at the FHP Academy.

 

Auxiliary Power

An Act authorizing the Director of the Florida Highway Patrol to establish an Auxiliary composed of volunteers was passed in the 1957 Legislature and signed by Governor LeRoy Collins on May 14, 1957. The American Legion helped get this legislation passed. Troop F formed the first FHP Auxiliary unit in the state in 1957. Col. Kirkman awarded members of the Auxiliary certificates of graduation.

 

 

A New Home for the Department

After nearly 20 years of cramped quarters, sharing the old Martin Building with the Motor Vehicle Commission, the Department of Public Safety held an open house in its new headquarters on July 8, 1958. The new headquarters, named the Neil Kirkman Building after the Director of the Department of Public Safety, became headquarters for the Department’s two divisions:  Driver Licenses and the Florida Highway Patrol.

 

 

Two Decades of Growth

In 1959, the Patrol celebrated its 20th Anniversary of service and protection to the residents of this state. The Patrol had grown from 32 men with very little equipment to a force of 461 well-trained and equipped Troopers. Patrol stations and troop headquarters dotted the entire length and breadth of the Sunshine State. Modern mobile two-way radios, powerful transmitters, and Western Union created nationwide network message teletype systems, unheard of in the early days when the men made their rounds on motorcycles or in autos needing repair and “played it strictly by ear.”

 

 

Flight Section

1959 Colonel H. N. Kirkman, authorized by the State Cabinet, purchased a Cessna 310, a six-passenger twin-engine aircraft.  The aircraft was used to transport command personnel of general headquarters staff.

 

Meeting the Challenge

Florida’s population, roads, and traffic were growing so fast that just two years after the headquarters building was completed, construction of a new wing began. This was needed to make room for the growing file of driver’s licenses and crash records. For example, in 1940, the patrol investigated 1,000 crashes and made 4,836 arrests. In 1960, the Patrol investigated 27,379 crashes and made 127,923 arrests.

 

Climbing the Ranks

The 1961 Legislature authorized the promotion of all special service officers to sergeant. These officers included troopers assigned as Driver License Supervisors and Troop Safety Officers. Driver License Supervisors supervised all license examination activities in their respective troops. Troop Safety Officers promoted traffic safety to the general public throughout their assigned troops.

 

Marked Car

The wording “State Trooper” began appearing on all Florida Highway Patrol cars (on the doors and trunk) in 1964. “State” appeared above the state seal, and “Trooper” appeared below the seal.

 

Blue, Black, and Tan

In 1965 Florida became one of the first states to use blue emergency lights on patrol cars. Blue lights were restricted to the Florida Highway Patrol and other police vehicles. Other emergency vehicles, such as ambulances and firefighting equipment, continued to use red lights. This helped eliminate confusion about emergency vehicles by providing a distinctive color for police vehicles.

 

A New Home

In 1966, the Florida Highway Patrol celebrated the grand opening of the new Training Academy located in Tallahassee. The three-story building cost approximately $700,000 and contained sleeping quarters for the troopers and recruits in training, two classrooms (each designed for 60 students), an indoor firing range, a weight room, a recreation room, and a cafeteria facility.  In 1981, an additional building was added adjacent to the Florida Highway Patrol Academy. This allowed the academy to conduct in-service schools and recruit schools. The academy can house 128 personnel and hold classroom instruction for as many as 175.

 

 

 

A New Work Week

For many years, troopers worked a twelve-hour shift, six days a week. On one occasion, for nine months, they performed a seven-day-per-week schedule. As time passed, shifts were cut to ten and then nine, but troopers still worked six days per week. The Governor and Cabinet had voted that troopers would begin working a forty-hour week effective January 1, 1966.

 

Passing the Test

To maintain a high level of competence and ensure equal advancement opportunities for all members, the Florida Highway Patrol instituted a system of promotions based on competitive examination in 1967.

 

Reaching New Heights

Governor Claude Kirk Jr. signed the “Spy in the Sky” bill that authorized the Florida Highway Patrol to use radar and aircraft to apprehend traffic law violators, effective July 1, 1967. The authority to use these devices had been struck down previously in the courts. Another measure signed by the governor was the bill providing broader arrest powers for the troopers, including arresting for any violation of state law committed in their presence.

 

 

The Computer Age

In 1968, a new computerized teletype system was installed, capable of transmitting 100 words per minute and automatically switching messages from one terminal to another. The Florida Law Enforcement Communication System (FLECS) connected 35 Florida Highway Patrol stations, 23 sheriff’s offices, the Beverage Department, the Bureau of Law Enforcement, the Department of Motor Vehicles, and the Division of Corrections. This new system meant a local officer wanting to check a suspicious vehicle could call on his car radio, giving the tag number. The radio dispatcher could put this information on teletype to the computer, and the answer was returned very quickly. The computer would include all information in the reply if there were a message on the car.

 

An Emerging Department

The 1969 session of the Florida Legislature reorganized the entire state government. The number of departments was reduced by combining certain agencies. The Department of Motor Vehicles was combined with the Department of Public Safety to create the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The new Department consisted of four divisions: Florida Highway Patrol, Driver License, Motor Vehicles, and Administrative Services.

 

Kirkman Assumed a New Role

Col. Kirkman held the Director of Public Safety position until August 15, 1969, when the Governor and Cabinet appointed him the first Executive Director of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. Col. Reid Clifton was promoted to Director of Florida Highway Patrol and Major C.W. Keith to Director of Driver Licenses.

A New Decade, A Familiar Face

Under the direction of Col. Reid Clifton, the Patrol grew to a force of more than 750 troopers, and the training of new troopers was expanded to 12 weeks. Col. Clifton was a member of the first training class in 1939. He was also the first colonel promoted to that position and had previously served with FHP.

 

The End of an Era

Col. Kirkman retired on February 11, 1970, which happened to be his 78^th birthday. Upon his retirement, Col. Kirkman was presented a scroll with a message of sincere appreciation and well-wishes for the future. 1,760 Department employees signed it.

 

Promoting the Troopers

On July 1, 1972, approximately 180 troopers were promoted. The classification of Trooper II was authorized to give recognition and pay increases for two specialized jobs, Homicide Investigator and Chemical Test of Intoxication Instructor.

 

Changing of the Guard

On March 1, 1972, Lt. Col. J. Eldridge Beach was promoted to Colonel of the Florida Highway Patrol. One of the first programs Col. Beach started was that of physical fitness. Members of the Florida Highway Patrol were expected to maintain a high level of physical fitness to sustain the muscular strength and endurance necessary to carry out the duties of a trooper.

Up, Up and Away

In September 1980, the Patrol received funding for five new aircraft to bring FHP’s fleet to eleven. This made it possible to assign one plane to each troop for traffic law enforcement.

 

A New Director

On July 3, 1982, Col. Beach retired, and Lt. Colonel Roger C. Collar was appointed Interim Director until the appointment of a new Director on December 14, 1982.

 

Colonel Burkett Takes the Lead

On December 14, 1982, Col. Bobby R. Burkett was appointed Director of the Florida Highway Patrol. Col. Burkett was a graduate of the 13th Recruit Class in 1956. Col. Burkett faced many challenges when appointed Director of the FHP, such as manpower, equipment, employment diversity, promotional diversity, and the modernization and professionalism of the Florida Highway Patrol. During Col. Burkett’s tenure, a full-time recruitment program was initiated, which included provisions for the employment of minorities and females that reflected the relative labor market of Florida during each recruit training class. The promotional process was revised, providing many command personnel with a career path.

FHP K9 Teams

In December of 1983, the Florida Highway Patrol sent four canine teams to a twelve-week school conducted by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. The K-9 Teams were trained for 12 weeks in obedience, agility, tracking, building searches, criminal apprehension, and the detection of drugs. The dogs were trained to detect cannabis, cocaine, heroin, and methaqualone pills. The four teams graduated on February 24, 1984, and were soon on the road chalking up some impressive arrests in the program’s first few months.

 

FHP Purchases Ford Mustangs

In January of 1983, the Florida Highway Patrol began experimenting with using the Ford Mustang as a special enforcement vehicle. The Ford Motor Company assembled the first Mustang precisely to determine equipment and training needs. Forty Mustangs were initially purchased. Over the next three years, the Patrol added more than 260 additional Mustangs to its fleet of patrol vehicles. The vehicle had shown itself to be very efficient as a pursuit vehicle, mechanically reliable, and cost-efficient. The Mustang had proved to be very popular with the troopers.

 

Uniform Rank Upgrade

In 1985, the Patrol markedly changed its uniform rank structure by eliminating the rank of Corporal, the first-line supervisory position. This action prompted upgrading uniformed supervisory and administrative personnel from sergeant to inspector.

 

A Comforting Presence

The Chaplaincy Program began in early 1985 when Col. Bobby R. Burkett approved guidelines for selection and responsibility in the Chaplaincy Program. The Florida Highway Patrol Chaplaincy Program aims to provide a trusted individual whom all Florida Highway Patrol personnel may confide in when seeking guidance in a problem area.

 

Bringing Back the Motors

Once a staple of the Patrol enforcement program, motorcycles were phased out and unused for several years. In 1985, FHP formed a new motorcycle section based in Miami for traffic enforcement. The motors’ return was primarily due to an outbreak of highway robberies occurring on I-95 in Miami-Dade County. In 2014, FHP had 50 motors in Troops G, E, C, D, and L.

 

 

Guarding a Pope

In 1987, Pope John Paul II visited Miami, and 350 troopers were assigned to the detail.

 

Interdiction

In 1987, the Contraband Interdiction Program, formerly known as “The Felony Officer Program,” was established. Initially, the program consisted of six felony teams of two troopers each, a felony officer, and a canine handler. The felony teams were assigned to the FHP Investigations Section. The teams utilized their expertise in the detection and apprehension of motor vehicle drug couriers who used Florida roadways to import and export illicit drugs. In 1990, the Felony Officer Program was expanded to 35 teams. Today, there are 32 felony teams statewide, known as the Contraband Interdiction Unit.

 

The Troopers on the Bus

By the mid-1980s, 20 troopers were assigned to inspect approximately 17,000 buses annually in the state and provide annual driver certification to over 6,000 nonpublic school bus drivers. The Patrol phased out this program in 1995.

Colonel Bobby Burkett Retired

After over 30 years of service to the Florida Highway Patrol, including 11 years as Director, Col. Bobby Burkett announced his retirement in December 1992. Lt. Col. Paul B. Taylor was named Interim Director. A nationwide search was instituted for a replacement to guide the agency into 21st-century law enforcement.

 

First Director from Outside FHP

On March 1, 1993, Mr. Fred Dickinson, Executive Director of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, announced the appointment of Ronald Grimming as the new Director of FHP. Grimming came to Florida from Illinois, where he worked for 22 years with the Illinois State Police. He became the first Director to be selected from outside the ranks of the Florida Highway Patrol.

 

Changing Hats

After years of wearing the traditional hat Col. H. Neil Kirkman introduced, the Patrol changed to the black “Smokey Bear” type hat, contrasting the epaulets and piping around the pockets. In May of 1994, the Patrol changed hats. Studies showed that the Campaign hat provided more protection from cancerous ultraviolet sun rays than other law enforcement hats. In addition, a 1989 Ball State University study of seven types of police uniform hats rated the Campaign hat #1 for providing officers with the most authoritative and commanding presence. It showed that wearing uniform hats positively affects the public’s image of police officers wearing the traditional Stetson.

 

FHP’s Helicopters

To complement our flight section, FHP acquired three Bell OH-58 A+ light observation jet turbine helicopters capable of operating at remote sites (off the airport), at night, and from a hover to 110 knots of airspeed. The helicopters were LO-Jack equipped, with a 30,000 candlepower “Night Sun” spotlight system, UHF/VHF, and 800 megahertz radio systems for communication. The first such craft was assigned to Troop K. They were phased out in 2001.

 

“Slick” Rides

In 1994, many FHP-marked patrol cars took on a different complexion with the arrival of the “slick top.” The cars were painted with the traditional markings; however, they did not have blue light bars on the roof.

 

Consolidating Forces

In 1995, to implement the budget, DHSMV consolidated dispatch into 29 locations statewide and discontinued dispatch operations in 14 locations.

 

Star FHP (*347)

The need for the public to better communicate with not only the various “911” systems around the state but also with local FHP stations became apparent with the significant increase in the use of cell phones. Through the efforts of the FHP Public Information/Safety Education Section and virtually all of Florida’s cellular providers, *FHP cellular telephone program was born in April 1994.

 

The Patrol Receives Accreditation Status

After four years of extensive work, the Florida Highway Patrol became the 13th state police/highway patrol agency in the United States to earn national accreditation status during the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) Fall Conference in Miami, November 23, 1996. Since July 1992, the Florida Highway Patrol has conducted an in-depth self-assessment by reviewing its policies and procedures and bringing them into compliance with national standards. The official on-site FHP assessment by CALEA was held in September 1996. During the on-site, certified CALEA assessors reviewed the files of 349 national standards the Patrol needed to comply with. They also conducted visits to field installations to verify compliance. The Patrol complied with all 349 standards. 1997, the national law enforcement accreditation seal was placed on all marked cars.

 

 

Another First for FHP

On May 5, 1997, Col. Ron Grimming announced that troopers would be trained in using Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) for a pilot program. FHP was the nation’s first state law enforcement agency to carry these simple, lightweight, portable, lifesaving machines in the trunk of their patrol cars.

 

Lt. Colonel Taylor Rises to the Occasion, Again

On December 1, 1997, Col. Ronald H. Grimming announced his resignation. Once again, Lt. Col. Paul Taylor was called to serve as interim Director on December 1, 1997, and remained in that position until March 10, 1998, when the new Director was appointed.

 

A Seasoned Veteran Called to Lead

On March 10, 1998, a 33-year veteran of the Florida Highway Patrol, Charles C. “Curt” Hall, was appointed Director of the Florida Highway Patrol by the Executive Director of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Mr. Fred O. Dickinson, III.

 

A Specialized Reaction

FHP implemented a 25-person Reaction Force in each Troop to improve its response to emergencies. The members of these teams were selected based on their superior abilities and specialized training in crowd control, disaster response, civil unrest, Amber Alerts, etc. These activities have been expanded to include domestic security.

 

Community Service Office (CSO)

Troops C and D had Community Service Officers to assist in non-emergency calls of service. As of March 18, 1999, 28 community service officers patrolled the greater Tampa Bay area. In October 2003, six CSOs started in the Orange County area. CSOs are provided 240 hours of classroom training and an additional 160 hours of field training before their release to solo patrol. Subject matters include various topics to prepare them for the CSO’s mission. This training and the high standards set by the instructors ensure that the quality of services provided by the Florida Highway Patrol to the residents and visitors of this state are consistent with our agency’s tradition of excellence. The CSO program ended in 2011.

 

Choosing Knight as Colonel

On June 29, 2001, Mr. Fred Dickinson, Executive Director of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, announced the appointment of Col. Chris Knight as Director of the Florida Highway Patrol effective July 2, 2001.

 

New Wheels

The Florida Highway Patrol took delivery of 200 new Chevrolet Camaro patrol cars in 2002. Equipped with a new radio system and low-profile Whelen light bars, each trooper issued the high-performance patrol car, which had to complete a five-hour familiarization class on the handling, braking, and acceleration of the 310-horsepower vehicle.

 

Transitional Recruits at the Academy

To expedite filling vacancies within the Patrol, a 10-week transition recruit school began on March 4, 2002, geared toward applicants with Florida law enforcement certification. This eliminated the need for these individuals to go through the entire 26-week basic recruit program for all other applicants.

 

Computerized Troopers

In early 2003, every FHP trooper had a Compaq laptop computer installed in their patrol car. These Mobile Data Terminals (MDTs) could execute electronic citation issuance and transmittal and check the status of a violator’s license and tag. Once again, FHP was a leader in this area, and other state patrols are closely monitoring FHP’s progress.

 

A Stress Management Team was formed

In 2003, Troops L, J, and K shared a regional Critical Incident Stress Management Team when Chief Miguel Guzman (then Troop Commander, Troop L) assigned FHP’s Chief Surgeon, Dr. Bradley Feuer, (and then Troop Surgeon, Troop L) to reactivate and develop a high-quality resource to support members of the troops in times of need. Chief Guzman carefully selected and appointed troopers, a duty officer, and an adjunct mental health professional based on their backgrounds, reputations, and experience. The team members participated in formal training provided by the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation and Broward Community College.

 

Moving Into the Future

In December 2005, members of the 111^th recruit class helped move furniture and equipment from the academy building in Tallahassee to its current home at the Florida Public Safety Institute.  They became the first class to graduate from the “new academy.”

 

Electronic Citations

In April 2007, a system allowing FHP to send citation data electronically to the Clerk of Courts was implemented. At the end of the month, 23 counties were participating, with others being added. The electronic reporting allowed information to come straight from the patrol car to the Clerk of Court, reducing the time to get information to the clerks and reducing errors through built-in edit rules.

 

A New Director

On November 30, 2007, Electra Bustle, Executive Director of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, announced that Col. John Czernis was appointed Director of the Florida Highway Patrol effective December 1, 2007.

 

Rapid ID

In July 2007, FHP partnered with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) on a pilot project to test the Rapid ID Device, giving law enforcement a specialized tool to identify individuals using a mobile fingerprint reader. The fingerprint scanner can be worn on a trooper’s belt and uses wireless technology to communicate directly with the laptop in the patrol car. The information is then sent immediately to a system at FDLE.

 

Something New for the Recruits

On July 13, 2009, the Florida Highway Patrol introduced Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) training to the recruits. The fundamental principle is the intentional contact between a patrol unit and a fleeing vehicle to force the vehicle to stop. The members of the 117th recruit class became the first class to be trained using this procedure.

 

A High Honor

The first Honor Guard training camp began on August 20, 2009, at the Florida Highway Patrol Training Academy. Later that year, the Patrol unveiled its new statewide Honor Guard, consisting of 37 members. The Honor Guard is divided into three regions:  North, Central, and South. Members were recommended by their chain of command and selected by the Colonel.

 

Adding to the Uniform

In February 2010, an official dress jacket was adopted for official patrol functions. This jacket is available to all sworn members.

 

New Director to Lead the Patrol

On March 2, 2011, Executive Director Julie Jones announced David H. Brierton’s promotion to Director of the Florida Highway Patrol. Brierton was selected from a field of more than 50 applicants nationwide. He has served the residents and visitors of Florida with distinction as a dedicated member of the Patrol since September 1983.

 

Motor Carrier Compliance on the Move

On July 1, 2011, the Florida Department of Transportation’s Office of Motor Carrier Compliance was incorporated into the Florida Highway Patrol. The consolidation resulted from Senate Bill 2160, passed by lawmakers during the 2011 Legislative Session, and placed commercial vehicle licensing, registrations, fuel permits, and enforcement under the purview of DHSMV.

 

Sergeant of the Patrol Announced

On December 15, 2011, Col. David Brierton designated Ronald Brannan as the Sergeant of the Patrol. Brannan had served as a sergeant for 23 years and achieved this honorary designation by having the most years of service in the rank of sergeant.

 

A New Director

On August 21, 2015, Terry Rhodes, Executive Director of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, announced that Col. Gene Spaulding was appointed Director of the Florida Highway Patrol.

 

Dodge Charger Makes Debut

In 2011, Dodge Chargers were added to the patrol Vehicle fleet.

New Executive Director

On January 6, 2023, Dave Kerner was appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis as Interim Executive Director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. (FLHSMV) On January 17, 2023, the Governor and Cabinet convened and voted unanimously to confirm his appointment as Executive Director of the Department.

 

A New Director

On April 6, 2023, Dave Kerner, Executive Director of the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, announced that Col. Gary L. Howze II was appointed Director of the Florida Highway Patrol. Col. Howze is the 15^th Colonel of the Florida Highway Patrol.