Georgia State Patrol SFC. Steve Harrison – New Commander of Perry Post 15

Georgia State Patrol Trooper Sergeant First Class Steve Harrison is the new Perry Post 15 Commander. 

Harrison started his new position on March 16, and is currently in his 31st year with the Georgia State Patrol (GSP). He is originally from Monroe County, Georgia, but is no stranger to the Perry GSP Post.

“My first assignment out of trooper school was here at the Perry Post,” Harrison said. “I really enjoyed the people of this community so it’s really great to be back here.”

In the mid-late 1990’s Harrison said he went back to Monroe County Post for a few years and then was assigned to the training division, and when the opportunity arose for the Perry Post Commander he said he did not hesitate to go out for it.

“The people in this community are so good to law enforcement,” Harrison said. “Since starting in March I have encountered many citizens and it’s just brought back a lot of great memories. When I was here before I worked for David Brack, who was the post commander here in Perry for long time and really had this post built. But he really influenced my life. So to sit here in his seat is such an honor for me.”

Harrison’s inspiration in joining the Georgia State Patrol came from his family. He said his grandfather and his grandfather’s brother were both GSP Troopers.

“My grandfather and his brother both served in World War II, and when they got out of the military they became State Troopers,” Harrison said. “My dad served in the Air Force and I can remember one day when I was in high school him encouraging me to think about becoming a trooper. When he did that it really had never crossed my mind, but from then on I thought about it more and here I am 31 years later.”

“I can’t see myself doing anything else,” he went on to say. “I have people ask me all the time when are you going to leave, you’re past retirement. Well in 2016 I was diagnosed with cancer and I went through a two-year battle. During that time I found sitting at home was not for me. It really hit a reset button as far as my life to where I really realized I enjoy what I do and the people that I am surrounded by. I’m not ready to go home yet.”

After taking command of the Perry Post, Harrison said he really just wants to keep pushing forward with the visions and goals the post has had.

“I got a good group of guys who are full of energy and truly want to make a difference in the community,” Harrison said. “They work hard and have a vested interest. So I just want us to keep pushing forward with that and continue to build good relationships with the citizens and local law enforcement agencies, and serve the community in the best way we can.”