The Missouri State Highway Patrol has been in existence since the early 1930s.
A letter from Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol says:
“For nine decades, the Missouri State Highway Patrol has answered the call to serve and protect the citizens of this great state. In 1931, a superintendent, six captains, 49 troopers, and a few civilians launched the legacy of exceptional service and protection that remains. From these humble beginnings evolved the full-service law-enforcement agency you know today. Our employees have embraced each additional responsibility– the crime laboratory, driver testing, criminal records, commercial vehicle enforcement, motor vehicle inspection, criminal investigation, gaming enforcement and marine operations to name a few. Numerous natural disasters and serious incidents, increasing social unrest, and most recently, the coronavirus pandemic inspire us to continue being Missouri’s beacon of integrity, professionalism and compassion. Throughout our history, the Patrol has endured crises, emergencies, and challenges that consistently revealed the true quality of our people and our mission.”
Olson’s letter continues with, “Patrol employees have shown the public we are ladies and gentlemen who serve and protect one contact, one stakeholder at a time for 90 years. Our employees have been and will continue to be connected to the community in which they live. We are your neighbors, school-board members and local volunteers.”
Olson’s letter also says, “As we recognize how far we’ve come since 1931, we are creating a vision for our future. Our vision is simple: We are committed to being professional, courteous, compassionate, resourceful and responsible. We will hold ourselves to the highest degree of integrity and show respect to all people. We will excel as a criminal-justice leader and to help ensure Missouri is a safe place to live or visit. The Patrol’s 1,191 members, 524 uniformed civilians and 544 civilians are living examples of its vision, mission and core values. We are honored to serve and protect the people of this great state.”