Two From Wayland Post Get Top MSP Honors

The Michigan State Police's Wayland Post has picked up two prestigious honors. It home to the Trooper of the Year and the Civilian of the Year.

Trooper Blaine Bachman was named the MSP's Trooper of the Year. which is based on dedication to duty, ethics and giving back. He also was name the winner of the Samuel A. Mapes Criminal Patrol and Investigation Award, for "looking past the traffic stop to identify serious crimes and close investigations with felony arrests."

Trooper Bachman joined the Michigan State Police in 2014, and is involved in mentoring children and has participated in events like Special Olympics and Shop with A Cop.

The second prestigious award coming to the Wayland post is Civilian of the Year, and Connie VanHouten picks up that title. VanHouten"is the go-to person at the Wayland Post for just about everything,” said MSP Director Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue. “Her positive attitude and comforting presence make an impact not just at work, but also in her hometown. VanHouten is a twenty year veteran of the Michigan State Police.

Not only is VanHouten valued at work, she also is important at home. VanHouten is an advocate for foster parenting and adoption and has adopted eight children. And due to her advocacy, friends have also adopted 20 children.

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