In late July, 54 high school students sponsored by the American Legion and 51 high school students sponsored by the Michigan District of Kiwanis experienced what it takes to become Michigan State Police (MSP) troopers.
The week-long programs hosted by the MSP are designed for highly motivated young men and women who are interested in careers in law enforcement.
Each student is responsible for securing his or her own sponsorship from one of the American Legion or Kiwanis offices located throughout the state.
The programs, patterned after an MSP trooper recruit school, promote an educational experience for building teamwork while learning about law enforcement fundamentals. Between physical training at 5 a.m. and lights-out at 10 p.m., the students learn about traffic and criminal law, defensive tactics, firearms and marksmanship fundamentals, first-aid, water safety, patrol tactics, crash investigations, law enforcement career opportunities, conservation law, narcotics and underwater recovery.
"Each student receives a taste of the training it takes to become a Michigan State Police trooper," said F/Lt. Jim Flegel, acting commander of the MSP Training Division. "The Michigan American Legion and Michigan District of Kiwanis Student Trooper Programs promote the importance of education, teamwork and leadership so these students can serve as positive role models in their communities."
Published: Mon, Aug 17, 2015
