Kent man receives State Patrol trooper cadet awards

Kevin J. McArdel, of Kent, racked up two awards among the 37 Washington State Patrol troopers sworn in last week - the 100th basic training graduating class.

McArdel received the Top Overall Cadet award and the Top Collision Investigation award during a Dec. 14 ceremony at the Capitol Rotunda in Olympia, according to a State Patrol media release.

“The 37 cadets graduating endured a rigorous application process, extensive background investigation, and received the best training, unmatched anywhere else in the nation,” said Chief John Batiste.  “They will join the ranks of Washington’s finest, as troopers of the Washington State Patrol.”

Batiste presented six troopers with awards during an open house Dec. 13 at the State Patrol Academy.

The Kent cadet won the Top Overall Cadet award for "the trooper cadet who demonstrated great courage to overcome obstacles, unwavering dedication to stay focused on reaching their goals, and their ability to give 100 percent in every aspect of their training. Trooper McArdel demonstrated the necessary skills, abilities, and judgment to be an excellent trooper and made extra efforts to continuously make improvements."

McArdel received the Top Collision Investigation award for "the highest level of proficiency regarding collision investigation, including mathematical computation, scene investigation, information and evidence gathering, report writing, and teamwork (64 hours)."

The State Patrol assigned McArdel to the Bellevue district office.

The cadets completed more than 1,000 hours of training. The Washington State Patrol Academy only produces approximately three cadet classes each biennium, which accounts for about 120 new troopers. Historically, only about 4 to 6 percent of the total number of applicants makes the grade to become troopers.

A tradition that began over 91 years ago on June 21, 1921, when six brave men kick-started their Harley motorcycles, strapped on an arm band, and started a proud tradition known today as the Washington State Patrol. The tradition continues to this day with the graduation of the 100th Trooper Basic Training Class last week was signaled by the stream of shiny white patrol cars parked in the lanes leading up to the capitol steps.

Contact Kent Reporter Courts, government reporter Steve Hunter at shunter@kentreporter.com or 253-872-6600, ext. 5052.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.