Glynco, GA - The Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) recognized its Honor Graduate of the Year during a ceremony held May 29, at the Glynco Training Delivery Point. This prestigious accolade is awarded annually to a basic training graduate who exemplifies academic excellence, superior marksmanship, and top-tier physical fitness.

This year’s honoree, Special Agent Christopher Whitehurst, of Homeland Security Investigations distinguished himself from 3,331 eligible students by achieving a 99.15 academic average, a 96.50 in physical fitness, and a firearms score of 100 (300 out of 300). 

“Today, we celebrate not only Chistopher’s achievement, but also the values he represents –professionalism, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to public service. FLETC is proud to honor him as our Honor Graduate of the Year. He represents the future of law enforcement with unwavering commitment and skill,” said Acting Director Paul E. Baker, FLETC.

The Honor Graduate Award is reserved for those enrolled in FLETC’s basic training programs who exceed 90% in all three performance areas. Of the 3,331 students who met eligibility criteria in Fiscal Year 2024, only twelve achieved this threshold across all composites.

The ceremony will also continue FLETC’s longstanding tradition of inscribing the recipient’s name on the Honor Graduate display inside the Coverdell Classroom Building. This visual tribute serves as a reminder of the excellence expected from every graduate who walks the halls of FLETC.

“As we honor Special Agent Whitehurst today, we also look to the future with great optimism,” said HSI’s Acting Executive Associate Director Robert J. Hammer. “His success at FLETC is a foundation upon which he will build an exemplary career at HSI, and I have no doubt that he will continue to serve as an inspiration to us all.”

The award’s symbolic memento is a commemorative handgun, generously funded by the Gunnels Family Trust. Aubrey A. “Tex” Gunnels, former Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives, first established the award in memory of FLETC graduates who have died in the line of duty.

“I still have a lot to learn and strive to do better every day. I thank the FLETC and HSI academy and instructor staff for their quality instruction and support.” said Agent Christopher Whitehurst, Homeland Security Investigations. 

In Fiscal Year 2024, FLETC graduated 68,087 law enforcement officers and agents from its basic and advanced programs, underscoring FLETC’s pivotal role in national law enforcement training.

As the nation’s premier provider of law enforcement instruction, FLETC continues to set the bar for professional development and training excellence.

###

Acting FLETC Director Paul E. Baker delivers remarks recognizing the Honor Graduate Award recipient during the Honor Graduate of the Year Ceremony, in Glynco, Ga., May 29, 2025. (FLETC OPA/David Tucker)

Honor Graduate Award recipient, Special Agent Christopher Whitehurst delivers award speech during the Honor Graduate of the Year Ceremony, in Glynco, Ga., May 29, 2025. (FLETC OPA/David Tucker)

Acting FLETC Director Paul E. Baker and Special Agent Christopher Whitehurst during the Honor Graduate of the Year Ceremony, in Glynco, Ga., May 29, 2025. (FLETC OPA/David Tucker)

Acting FLETC Director Paul E. Baker, HSI’s Acting Executive Associate Director Robert J. Hammer, and Special Agent Christopher Whitehurst during the Honor Graduate of the Year Ceremony, in Glynco, Ga., May 29, 2025. (FLETC OPA/David Tucker)

The Honor Graduate commemorative handgun, generously funded by the Gunnels Family Trust and award certificate during the Honor Graduate of the Year Ceremony, in Glynco, Ga., May 29, 2025. (FLETC OPA)

Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers
Office of Public Affairs
Contact: 912-267-2447