Powerful Stories of Service and Sacrifice Shape Our Police Training Students

May 8, 2025 | 3:45 PM
Our Police Training & Education students had the profound opportunity to hear from two speakers whose lives were forever changed by line-of-duty sacrifices.
MN State Trooper Nathan Elzen delivered a moving presentation about his fallen family member, Officer Matthew Ruge of Burnsville PD, who was killed responding to a domestic disturbance in 2024 alongside two fellow first responders. Trooper Elzen highlighted the critical importance of proper tactics, training, education, officer wellness, and community support.

Doug Thomsen shared his harrowing experience of being abducted at gunpoint by the same individual who fatally shot Officer Brian Klinefelter on January 29, 1996. Following this powerful testimony, we were honored to witness second-year PTE student Nolen Gustafson receive the 2025 Brian Klinefelter Memorial Scholarship, established by Doug and Connie Thomsen to honor Officer Klinefelter's legacy.

These stories remind our students of both the risks and the purpose behind their chosen profession. We're grateful to our speakers for sharing their experiences and for helping shape the next generation of thoughtful, prepared law enforcement professionals.
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