By: MIKE GLESINGER PANHANDLE POST
Thanks to: Steve Stanec, Commander, American Legion District 4 and The Nebraska State Patrol
44 Nebraska High School students graduated from the Nebraska State Patrol Training Academy in Grand Island, June 24. Amoung the graduates was Alliance High School, Senior to be, Kenna Montes. Kenna spent her 17th birthday at the training facility, surrounded by warm smiles and lots of pushups and she offered this tip..."Never tell anyone it's your birthday when you're training!"
The Cadet Program is co-sponsored by the Nebraska American Legion and the Nebraska State Patrol and provides first-hand experience and insights into the operations of law enforcement.
After returning home, Kenna said, "My time spent at the State Patrol Center is an experience I will never forget" "It was a stressful 3 1/2 days, but I learned so much about discipline, teamwork and what it takes to be in the force, and most importantly..friendship." Kenna said the first day was probably the toughest, but it was ultimately her favorite part. The Cadets were lined up in their barracks next to their roommates, standing at attention, while NSP Officers yelled their expections at them. She said.."I learned how to properly fold a bed at a 45 degree angle and help others get their room ready before inspection." Kenna said what made her experience so much fun, was her roommate, Braidy Parril. They both kept each others spirits up and shared a few tears, but finished together. "I would encourage those interested in law enforcement to check the program out."
The Junior Law Cadet Program is available to all high school students who have completed their junor year and are in good academic standing with good moral character and posess a desire to learn more about the law enforcement profession. Cadets must be a Nebraska resident, be in good health and able to participate in physical activities, posess a positive attitude and display respect for law enforcement.
NSP Cadets participate in daily calisthenics and receive training in firearms, self-defense, fingerprinting, K-9 handling, accident and criminal investigation, lie detector testing and State Patrol vehicle training.