www.statetroopers.org

Volume 21, Issue 1 January 2012

Law enforcement golfers tee up for camaraderie Over $6K raised for scholarships

For the second year, the Southeastern Law Enforcement Kinderlou Forest Golf Club in Valdosta, Ga., home of the Nation - Shootout at Kinderlou Forest drove law enforcement golfers – wide Tour event, the South Georgia Classic. For $75 per person, both the experienced and the beginners – to the course for a golfers enjoyed a four-person scramble, lunch, door prizes, and day of fantastic weather, friendly competition, and unmatched awards at the Oct. 17 event. camaraderie. “This year’s tournament provided another opportunity to support But the day wasn’t all about fun and games; golfers were seri - the scholarship program while providing unsurpassed camaraderie ous about raising money for the AAST Scholarship Foundation, for the law enforcement community,” AAST Executive Director and this year topped last year’s event with $6,000 being raised, Ken Howes said. “Many of our returning players brought friends to enough to fund 12 first-time scholarships. join their fellow officers and friends of police for an unforgettable This year 53 golfers came from Alabama, Florida, Georgia, day of brotherhood and golf. It’s a win-win combination.” Indiana, and Tennessee to one of the nation’s top courses, The winning team was the foursome from Georgia, Mike Burns, Michael Burns (), R.L. Dowdy, and William Schwab. Barry Tucker of the Alabama DPS won the longest drive Continued on page 12

Executive Director Ken Howes, Teddy Payne, and Paul Forshay, left to right, proudly display the $100,000 check that a lucky golfer could’ve claimed in a hole- in-one chance. Nobody, however, won the money.

© American Association of State Troopers, Inc. 2012. All Rights Reserved. Fellow Troopers, Highway ization are to be commended for their financially were in that same boat at one Patrol Officers, and State commitment, time, and vision. time, never thinking they would be the Police Officers: Please meet our full board of directors ones in need. Troopers come together to on page 4. These men are committed to care for their own, and we don’t want I am privileged to begin my moving AAST forward. any troopers to miss out on the opportu - three-year term as the presi - Every one of us has felt the effects of nity to be part of AAST and the bond we dent of your board of these difficult economic times. Nonethe - offer troopers, no matter the age or the directors. Please remember less, our members have been willing and state affiliation. that board members serve as able to help their brothers who have Lastly, if you know of corporations or

r volunteers. They are active found themselves in a hardship. We are donors in your states who might be e i

b and retired state troopers who donate thankful for the many members who have interested in supporting AAST by r a

B their time to represent you, our members, opened their hearts and wallets this year advertising on the website or by making

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i and to make decisions on how to best when we have sent you notifications the Scholarship Foundation part of their e

K serve you through benefits and services about troopers in need, both AAST mem - charitable spending, please put them in offered through AAST membership. bers and non-members alike. contact with Executive Director Ken

n I believe that as troopers, we have a bond You have provided unbelievable Howes, [email protected] , or you e like none other in law enforcement. Let me financial assistance to a trooper who can provide their information to Ken, P first thank Tommy Moore for his many lost his daughter to cancer (over and he will contact them. s ’ years of leadership and service. Before $9,000), troopers who suffered damage We count on the generosity of the pub - t Tommy served two terms as president, he in storms, and troopers who have suf - lic to help enable the services and n

e served as the national treasurer and the fered financial hardships because of benefits AAST will continue to provide

d director of AAST’s Florida chapter. I can unexpected medical costs. You are the you, our member state troopers. i

s indisputably say that Tommy has led AAST backbone of this Association and the Always remember: Every day’s a holi - e in such a positive manner that everything is very essence of brotherhood. day, and every meal’s a feast. r in place for an easy and seamless transition Brotherhood is the foundation of P for the new board. AAST, which is why we should all Fraternally, e Another longtime board member who encourage young troopers to join. h

t chose not to seek reelection is Dave Witt, Although these ladies and gentlemen who has made tremendous contributions don’t always recognize the immediate m to the advancement of AAST. The men benefits of joining a professional, frater - o

r who have sacrificed countless hours to nal organization when they are young, Keith Barbier

F make this Association a top-notch organ - the troopers you and I have helped President Follow AAST on Facebook! Get important news feeds and interesting links on our Facebook page, and stay connected with troopers around the country. Become a fan today! www.facebook.com/statetroopers National Officers Keith Barbier President

AAST Headquarters Jeff Lane 1949 Raymond Diehl Road First Vice President Tallahassee, FL 32308 Trooper Connection ® is the official publication of the American Association (800) 765-5456 Chris Ricks of State Troopers, Inc. and is published Angie Ishee, Editor Second Vice President quarterly as a service to AAST members We want to hear from you! Trooper Connec - in conjunction with tion ® welcomes your comments, articles, and Claude Johnson American Graphics & Design, Inc., article ideas. We also encourage you to send Third Vice President www.agad.com photographs along with your articles. Please President: Jenny DeBack contact the Public Relations Department: Graphic Designer: Kenneth Musick AAST Public Relations Dept. Cindy Chic (800) 477-9860 Secretary Bylined articles contain opinions of the E-mail: [email protected] writers and do not necessarily reflect Visit AAST online: www.statetroopers.org J.D. Johnson AAST policy. © Copyright American Association of State Troopers, Inc. 2012 Treasurer 2 ______AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 News from arizona D

Troopers help brother trooper in need

AAST members have done it again. They stepped up to the plate daughter’s life. when a fellow trooper needed support. We are proud to report a total of over $9,000 was received from AAST Executive Director Ken Howes e-mailed AAST members in AAST members, in addition to AAST’s Brotherhood donation, and September to let them know of a dire situation involving Arizona forwarded to Det. Vega on members’ behalf. DPS Detective Raul Vega and his family. Many of you have already received personal notes of thanks Over the last couple of years, Vega’s family has made significant from the Vega family. The AAST board and staff are humbled, yet sacrifices to take care of their 11-year-old daughter, Alexis. Raul’s not surprised, by the outpouring of support for a brother trooper wife quit her job as a teacher to stay home and be with Alexis. As a in need. result of the lost income and rising medical costs, they fell behind on If you would like to be added to the e-mail distribution list to be their mortgage and ended up losing their home. notified of important, timely situations such as this, please send your On September 25, Alexis passed away, and the Vega family was e-mail address, [email protected] . faced with funeral costs, as well as outstanding medical bills associ - AAST received the following letter ated with her two-year battle against the cancer that took their from the Arizona DPS director:

Vega

See interesting trooper Visit us online! news and photos www.statetroopers.org from around the country, and also track news within AAST.

AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 ______3 AAST board members elected, ready to serve

The lineup of national board mem - ident and to perform the president’s chapter. As secretary, Musick has the bers, all who serve as volunteers and duties in his absence. authority to inspect all records, are not paid, who will head the Associ - Chris Ricks, who retired from the books, and other documents of ation for the next three years began Missouri State after a AAST’s national headquarters. He Barbier their new term January 1. The election 35-year career, was elected second also confirms a quorum of board was held in June at the AAST national vice president. As second vice presi - members at meetings and, among board meeting in San Antonio, Texas. dent, he has the right to inspect all other duties, records the minutes of Lt. Keith Barbier, who retired in physical property of the Association all national board meetings. November after 33 years with the and the responsibility of retaining a Sgt. James D. “J.D.” Johnson, a 28- Texas DPS, was elected AAST presi - current audit of Association property. year veteran of the Florida Highway dent, after serving two terms as first Ricks also serves as chairman of the Patrol, will continue to serve as treas - Lane vice president, before which he served AAST Scholarship Foundation board urer, in which capacity he has the right as director of AAST’s Texas chapter. of directors. to inspect financial records of the Asso - The president’s main responsibility Retired Tennessee Bureau of Inves - ciation and will also present a financial is overseeing the management of the tigation Assistant Director Claude report to the board at all regular meet - Association. He also presides at all Johnson was reelected third vice pres - ings. J.D. served as the AAST Florida national board meetings and is in ident and is responsible for gathering chapter’s financial director for eight charge of promoting the growth of the and disseminating information regard - years and state director for six years Association, seeking new members, ing the welfare of retired state before being elected national treasurer Ricks and advising members and officers troopers. Claude retired in 1990 as in 2005 and is AAST’s longest-serving about AAST. assistant director of the Tennessee member nationwide. 1st Sgt. Jeff Lane, a 26-year mem - Bureau of Investigation after 27 years The national board of directors ber of the Virginia , served of service. consists of the above executive offi - as the AAST Virginia state director, Capt. Kenneth Musick, a 21-year cers and the state directors from then as national secretary before mov - member of the Texas DPS, was states with an established chapter. ing to the position of first vice elected secretary after serving five Each officer has one vote on the president. His role is to assist the pres - years as director of the AAST Texas national board. C. Johnson AAST State Directors If you would like to contact the director in your state, please call AAST headquarters for contact information, 800-765-5456, or e-mail Ken Howes, [email protected] . AAST encourages and welcomes your input.

Alabama Georgia Kentucky North Carolina Texas Clarence “Bubba” Blue Lee Burch Tim Hazlette Carolyn Logan Brandon Bess Musick Arizona Idaho Louisiana Oregon Virginia Mike Bonin Rick Wright Adam White Gerry Gregg James E. Clare, Jr. California Indiana Maryland Pennsylvania Washington Gordon Koolman Noel Houze, Jr. Chuck Cave Jim Emigh Brian George Connecticut Iowa Massachusetts South Carolina West Virginia Sean Connelly Mark Probst Frank McVeigh Bryan McDougald R.D. Estepp Florida Kansas New York Tennessee Wyoming J.D. Johnson John Bagnardi Steve Jensen Mike Doney Robert F. Yoakum Carla Nichols

Enhanced Identity Theft Product with Kroll With identity theft being the fastest growing crime in America, AAST With instant alerts, you can is proud to introduce an enhanced identity theft product that provides immediately resolve any issue continuous credit monitoring and restoration for the entire family! with one call to Kroll Fraud Solutions who provides full restora - Receive a free credit report, continuous credit monitoring, and tion, including legal issues, driver’s license, and immediate alerts for change of address, credit inquiry, and more. character/criminal issues. Benefits include • Will, living will, health care power of attorney • Unlimited advice • 24/7 emergency assistance • Document review Kristen Wofford, married to Maj. Al Wofford, , ret., is the contact person for any questions or assistance with enrollment. A portion of each enrollment will go to the AAST Scholarship Foundation. Enroll online at www.statetroopers.org or call Kristen at 850-766-4352. Program is offered as a purchase option to AAST members and is not included in the AAST member benefit package.

4 ______AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 Holidays bring reason to help less fortunate Troopers share spirit of giving

Year after year, state troopers throughout the year. involved with Shop with a Cop events during the holidays that rise to the occasion and volun - The Ohio Troopers Caring pro - events, pairing children with a make a tremendous impression teer countless hours to help those gram partners off-duty Ohio State law enforcement officer for an on the citizens they serve, mak - in need during the holidays. Highway Patrol troopers with unforgettable shopping trip, often ing a positive impact on crime Troopers shop with children, local businesses to provide less providing the only gifts the chil - prevention by building relation - deliver meals, collect toys, raise fortunate children the opportunity dren will receive. ships between police officers and funds, visit hospitalized kids, to receive and give a gift to loved Although we highlighted only children. We at AAST say thank and maintain a positive presence ones during the holiday season. a few states in this segment, each you to those who make it hap - at a time when crime often Troopers in Indiana, Maryland, highway patrol and state police pen, year after year. We are peaks, and this is in addition to Michigan, Missouri, Oregon, department in the country partic - happy to partner with you for the volunteer hours they log Washington, and other states are ipates annually in community several of these events.

Sgt. Bill Lowe of the Missouri State Highway Patrol plays peek- a-boo with a child at the University of Kansas Medical Center.

Tpr. Mike Lane and Tpr. Sean LeBlank, right, of the Massachusetts State Police stand outside a Toys R Us store with U.S. Marines to collect toys for the Toys for Tots event.

The Nevada Department of Public Safety Investigation Lt. Brian Lawson, Sgt. Jeff Cook, Sgt. Greg Tramel, Trp. Kerry Ragland, Trp. Willie Allison, and Trp. Les Dolente Division rang the bells to support the Salvation Army. of the , left to right, helped distribute food during Christmas last year.

AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 ______5 Mississippi stays on top at national matches

For the second straight year, M/Sgt. Dan Rawlinson, 36, of the Mississippi Highway Patrol claimed the High Scoring State Trooper Award, winning the new XDm 525 9mm pistol provided by Springfield Armory. Rawlinson’s score of 6,098 with 340 x put him at the top of the state trooper competitors in the annual NPSC, held Sept. 19-22 in Albuquerque, N.M. He ended up in 4th place overall among 300+ competitors. First held in 1962, the NRA-sponsored matches incorporate real law enforcement shooting skills. Competitors start with guns hol - stered and fire timed matches with both revolvers and semi-automatic pistols from varying distances and positions. The aggregate scores from the revolver and semi-automatic pistol matches are used to crown a national champion, with center shots known as Xs being used as tie-breakers. AAST sponsored its annual dinner, where state troopers Team CHP member Mike McGinity shoots from the 50-yard line during the team match. gathered the night before the matches began to enjoy remark - able camaraderie and a delicious, authentic New Mexican dinner at the home of New Mexico state trooper Andy Baldridge. AAST was proud to once again sponsor the High Scoring State Trooper Award for the NPSC, widely considered the world’s most prestigious law enforcement shooting competition. We thank Springfield Armory for their generosity in providing the AAST High Scoring Trooper Award again this year.

Odie Hitt of the Texas DPS, left, presents the High Scoring State Trooper Award to Dan Rawlinson on behalf of AAST. News from oregon m Memorial sign honors fallen trooper, local officer Ten years ago, a drowsy driver forever along the northbound lanes of Interstate 5 disabled on the freeway shoulder. Burright changed the lives of three families and two near milepost 243 in remembrance of Sr. was critically injured and later retired from law enforcement agencies when he struck Tpr. Maria Mignano of the Oregon State OSP because of injuries. three police officers on Interstate 5 south of Police and Ofcr. Jason Hoerauf of the “Don’t forget why your troopers, deputies Salem, Ore. This tragic incident and the lives Albany Police Department who were killed and city police officers are working every of those involved were remembered with the September 4, 2001, by a 19-year old driver day to keep our communities and highways posting of Oregon’s first roadside memorial who fell asleep, drifted off the roadway, and safer for everyone,” said OSP Superintend - sign honoring fallen officers following the struck the two officers and OSP Sergeant ent Chris Brown. “Remember when you passage of House Bill 3039 during the 2011 John Burright. The three officers were drive by this sign, real lives were lost and Legislative session. standing outside of two OSP patrol cars forever changed trying to help people who On September 1, the sign was displayed while assisting a family whose van became needed help.” 6 ______AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 News from south carolina p Parole denied for trooper’s convicted killer Tommy Thompson, the convicted area when he was slain by a shot - South Carolina trooper to die in the murderer of Patrolman Ben Strick - gun blast at the hands of Thompson. line of duty. As of today, 49 have land in 1974, was denied parole in The gunman and his accomplice led given their lives on the job. September. police on a massive manhunt, tak - Strickland left behind a wife, two Strickland, a 16-year veteran of ing a college student hostage along teenage sons, and a grief-stricken Strickland the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the way. family of troopers and community had initiated a traffic stop at a rest Strickland, 40, became the 24th who loved him.

South Carolina trooper carries Special Olympics torch through Greece A South Carolina state trooper traveled to Athens, Greece, in June to help transport the flame of hope in the Special Olympics World Games. Through his work as the South Carolina Special Olympics Torch Run director, Sgt. Bryan McDougald was selected for this unparal - leled trip, joining 90 police officers from all over the world who participated in the event to raise awareness and funds for the Special Olympics athletes and their endeavor for competition and inclusion. During the June 9-25 trip, McDougald logged countless miles, running through 60 cities, enjoying the beautiful countryside. “The Olympic torch means so much more to [the Greeks] than the rest of the world because the Olympics began there and they truly understand and believe in what the Olympic torch signifies,” McDougald said. Sgt. McDougald, right, and Special Olympics athlete Zach Commander (repre - Police officers came from as far away as Serbia, Newfoundland senting the ) enjoy the scenery in Greece. Labrador, Australia, Wisconsin, Maine, Hawaii, Kansas, and Mon - tana to support the event. Law enforcement raised over $39 million in 2010 supporting Special Olympics athletes. All monies raised through the torch run go to athlete services to send the athletes and their families to local, state, national, and world games. “This experience was personally meaningful for me because too many times athletes are not included, shunned away from the most basic of human rights, often not given any chance for personal growth, or written off before they can make their mark,” McDougald said. “I’ve seen the athletes compete, seen medals given out to those who were the best at that sport, but I’ve never seen any Special Olympics athlete lose. To the athlete it’s not about winning; it’s about the opportunity to compete.” McDougald added that the one thing that he especially enjoys about working with Special Olympics is how sincere these athletes are. “These special people see past your smile, your hug, even your Sgt. McDougald places a South Carolina pin on a Special Olympics athlete uniform; they see straight into your heart, and if an athlete calls you from Greece. friend, you are a true friend indeed.” News from arizona D Trooper’s killer convicted The woman whose police and his partner tried to lay Marano is survived by his chase led to the death of an Ari - down a spike strip to stop wife and four children. zona Department of Public Baker’s car, which was being Baker was sentenced in Safety officer in 2009 was con - pursued by another DPS offi - October to life in prison for victed Sept. 15 of first-degree cer. The officer chasing Baker Marano’s murder, six years murder and two other charges. struck Marano, killing him. in prison for unlawful flight Georgia Lynn Baker, 45, Baker was also found guilty from a law enforcement was fleeing from police in a in Maricopa County Superior vehicle, and 11.25 years in stolen SUV in December 2009 Court of fleeing from police prison for theft of means of Marano when Officer Chris Marano and driving a stolen car. transportation. Baker

AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 ______7 News from Indiana P Record outdoor marijuana Rescue, recovery growing operation shut down at concert venue Members of the along with local officers acted on information from state conserva - tion officers and eradicated an Indiana state record number of mari - juana plants for one single growing operation in September. Approximately two weeks earlier conservation officers eradicated 864 plants from a plot in Switzerland County and then contacted an ISP mar - ijuana eradication coordinator and recommended he do a “fly over” to check for other plants. While flying in Indiana National Guard helicopters, state police and National Guard spotters discovered several other plots in the area. Troop - ers and local officers spent three days eradicating over 25,700 plants, an Indiana record for a single out - door growing operation. With marijuana selling for $1,500-2,000 per pound, this grow was a multimil - lion dollar operation. At press time, police had no suspects Indiana state troopers join local officers in descending on a and were requesting assistance from marijuana grow that yielded a state record. the public with the investigation. An Indiana state trooper assesses the scene following the August 13 stage collapse, which was responsible News from missouri a for seven deaths and four dozen injuries. State troop - ers were among the first to respond to the deadly scene at the Indiana State Fair in Indianapolis, where WTC Flag: Long May It Wave! strong winds toppled a stage onto a crowd of fans as they waited for country band Sugarland to perform. by MSHP Public Info. Spec. III Cheryl D. Cobb

Sunday, September 11, 2011, was a day for remembering and a day to make memories. It was an opportunity for our nation to honor its heroes – those lost on that fateful day in 2001 and those who remain with us proudly, selflessly protecting us from harm. All across America, people gathered to do both. In Joplin, the gathering was especially poignant. The New York Says Thank You Foundation chose the city of Joplin, Mo., as the last stop for the World Trade Center flag. This 20-foot by 30-foot flag was pulled from the rubble of the Twin Towers after they’d fallen. Years ago, tornado survivors in Greensburg, Kan., began the process of repairing this important symbol. Since that time, the flag has traveled all across the country. This national 9-11 ceremony with the World Trade Center flag took place in front of Joplin’s St. John’s Hospital, which was dev - astated by a tornado on May 22, 2011. Those participating unfurled the flag at 8:45 a.m., then raised the flag for one minute at 8:58 a.m., recognizing the time the World Trade Center’s south tower col - Members of the Missouri State Highway Patrol joined other emergency services lapsed. At 9:28 a.m., the raising was repeated, again for one minute, to per sonnel to unfurl the World Trade Center flag in front of St. John’s Hospital in Joplin. represent the collapse of the World Trade Center’s north tower. After the ceremony, the flag traveled to Missouri Southern State Uni - of themselves into the fabric of this symbol and showing how resilient versity in Joplin, where anyone who wanted could sew one stitch. The America truly is. Once repairs were complete, the flag returned to the people this flag represents have added one stitch each, weaving a piece National September 11 Memorial and Museum in New York. 8 ______AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 News from washington w Trooper goes Over the Edge for charity Cadets train

Tpr. Mike Cheek of the Washington State through OC-10 Patrol was one of nearly 200 participants who went Over the Edge in August to raise money for Special Olympics of Washington. The Over the Edge event, held for the sec - ond year, allows people who raise thousands o t

of dollars in pledges to rappel down the 514- o h p

l

foot, 41-story Rainier Building in downtown o r t a P

Seattle. Similar events are held in numerous e t a cities around the country to support various t S

n o

charities, with the Rainier Building being the t g n i

tallest of all events. This year, Cheek raised h s a

$2,055 for Special Olympics, with the Seat - W tle event bringing in almost $240,000 total. Tpr. Mike Cheek rappelled down a 41-story building to Cadet Shaneka Phillips, with the Washington Costumes were encouraged for this fun raise money for charity. State Patrol’s 23rd Arming Class, attacks a event, and this year Cheek dressed up as Lt. dummy after being sprayed with OC-10 (pep - Dangle from the TV show Reno 911. Other During the rappel, Cheek had two video per spray). Cadets are also required to move to costumes worn during the weekend included cameras attached to his helmet, one looking their vehicle after being sprayed, find keys, Superman, Batgirl, a skeleton, and Wonder forward and the other looking down. To view open the car door, then repel an attack using Woman, with participants ranging in age the videos of his rappelling experience, go to their pistol. They then got into the car to call from 18 to 80 years old. http://www.youtube.com/user/mooman547. for assistance.

News from North carolina i

Troopers claim coveted sniper award

The North Carolina State Highway departments, military units, and state and Patrol sniper team walked away the victors federal agencies, all on hand hoping to cap - in the 5th Annual Sniper Conference held ture the coveted title. at the Gastonia, N.C., Police Firearms and Over the four-day event, law enforce - Tactical Training Facility in September. ment officials sharpened their skills in 11 After a grueling and competitive fun-filled different events that represented real-world competition, Tprs. Patrick Yount and Jesse scenarios. The marksmanship competition Saucier finished first, followed by the San is attended by some of the world’s best law Diego, Calif., Police Department and the enforcement and military sniper teams and Desoto County, Miss., Sheriffs Department. is one of only a handful of nationwide Representatives from the Connecticut sniper competitions for elite sniper teams Tpr. Patrick Yount, left, and Jesse Saucier, won the elite and Massachusetts State Police were used to combat terrorism, drug trafficking, sniper competition, which included 40 teams. among the 40 teams representing sheriffs and hostage-taking. News from massachusetts W Mass trooper honored as Trooper of Year Tpr. Edward Johnson III was the recipient of the Massachusetts State Troopers Association 2010 Trooper of the Year Award in September for his Col. Marian heroic arrest of a subject involved in the murder of a police officer on the McGovern, left, night of Dec. 26, 2010. joins Former Johnson and other Massachusetts troopers responded to the scene of the Massachusetts State robbery in Woburn, Mass., during a blizzard with zero visibility conditions on Troopers Association that Sunday evening. Officer John “Jack” McGuire of the Woburn Police President Paul Department was gunned down by one of the robbers, but was able to return Matthews, right, fire and kill the shooter. Two others escaped the store, and Johnson appre - in presenting the hended one who was fleeing. The other robber was also arrested. Trooper of the Year For his heroism and attention to duty, Johnson was selected from numerous Award to Tpr. candidates as the Trooper of the Year. The award is presented each year in honor Edward Johnson III. of Tpr. Alje J. Savela who was killed by an unknown gunman in 1953. AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 ______9 SHOTS FROM ROUND THE OUNTRY Remembering A C 9/11

High-tech on wheels

The California High - way Patrol’s nine Incident Command Vehicles include a satellite communica - tion package, enabling the CHP to communi - cate with any police or fire agency throughout the state. It was designed to be used when all other commu - nication systems fail. o t o h p

P S M / t l o H

d n o m y

Texas Aviation awarded a R The Honor Guard stands at attention in front of the Michigan Capitol in Lansing during the 9/11 Remembrance and Candlelight Vigil ceremony on Sept. 11, 2011.

Every dog has its day

In October Texas DPS Aviation, McAllen Station, received the Excel - lence in Police Aviation Award at the International Association of Police Chiefs conference in Chicago. The award was presented by Bell Helicopter on behalf of the IACP awards committee, recogniz - ing DPS Aviation for its outstanding air support along the border in combating the drug cartels, supporting the and U.S. Border Patrol. The unit was also recognized for its Tpr. Downing of the State Patrol, kneeling, and K-9 Rex won a 1st place outstanding support of large scale multi-service and agency bor - medal in the Stealth Entry/Dragline Event. The patrol hosted the Nebraska Police der operations led by Texas Ranger RECON teams. Service Dog Championships Oct. 21-22, with teams from Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri, and South Dakota competing.

10 ______AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 Members recruiting members Trooper narrowly escapes injury

A Wyoming trooper’s patrol vehicle was totaled after being struck just before midnight on June 17, but AAST member Sgt. Thomas Ferritto of the New York State he was not injured. Police helps spread the word about AAST by displaying The trooper had just stopped three young men who were riding bikes and skateboarding down the cen - brochures on his desk. ter lane of US 89 in Jackson without lights. He was talking to the young men on the shoulder, with rear lights activated, when he saw a speeding vehicle Safety trooper spreads trucker safety message approaching. The trooper leapt to safety just in time to avoid being struck as the vehicle crashed into the patrol car. The driver of the vehicle was charged with driving under the influence, failure to provide proof of insurance, careless driving, and failure to obey the move over law. If the trooper had not contacted the individuals traveling in the middle of the traffic lane, they could have been struck by the alleged drunk driver, result - ing in serious injuries or fatalities.

Troopers in training If Tpr. Gregory J. Hamlett seems larger than life – he is! Hamlett was selected for DriveSmart Virginia’s 2011 Click It or Ticket mobile billboard campaign targeting commercial vehicle drivers. The billboards feature Hamlett and the message, “Truck Drivers: Be Ready. Be Buck - led. We are watching for violators!” A fleet of box trucks displaying the ad campaign spent the spring going up and down Interstate 81 with the goal of increasing seat belt usage among truckers.

Bigger than life bear makes friends

The ’s Trooper Bear (aka Sr. Tpr. Doug Cutts) is always a big hit at the Iowa State Fair, held in August. Kids The 52 members of the 137th Trooper Candidate Class and adults alike love the 10-foot-tall graduated Sept. 23, marking the end of 26 weeks of rigorous academic and inflatable mascot. physical training. Seventeen of the new troopers came from other states including Colorado, Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Ten - nessee.

AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 ______11 News from ohio k Follow patrol training via Twitter The Ohio State Highway Patrol has been giving their Twitter followers an inside look at the patrol’s next acad - emy class as they progress through their 23-week paramilitary training. The patrol kicked-off this social media tour in September with the release of a behind-the-scenes photo of civilian per - sonnel at the patrol’s tailor shop, preparing the 87 cadets’ uniforms for their Sept. 21 arrival. Twitter followers have then trailed the details of training life. These new cadets will help fill the 120 vacant trooper positions statewide. To become a Twitter follower, go to twitter.com/OSHP. The training of Ohio State Highway Patrol cadets is being tracked on Twitter. News from alabama B New I.D. program started With Gov. Robert Bentley as special guest, the Alabama DPS announced plans in September to launch the state’s STAR I.D. pilot project. In response to acts of terrorism committed against the United States, and in an effort to ensure the safety of citizens, Congress passed the REAL-ID Act of 2005. To comply with that act, DPS has developed a driver license and a non-driver identification program called STAR I.D., which stands for Secure, Trusted And Reliable. Current Alabama driver licenses and non-driver ID cards will be accepted for official federal purposes until Dec. 1, 2014. Beginning on that date, however, individuals born after Dec. 1, 1964, will be required to present a REAL-ID-compliant document (or unexpired U.S. passport) to board a domestic commercial flight or to gain access to certain federal facilities that require identification. On Dec. 1, 2017, individuals born on or before Dec. 1, 1964, will be required to be in compliance. After the first of the year, STAR I.D. will be offered statewide.

Maj. Terry Chapman addresses the media about the new STAR I.D. program as Gov. Robert Bentley, far left, and Lt. Col. Kevin Wright look on.

GOLF contest, while retired FBI agent Ray Phelps won a trophy for Continued from front page the longest putt. “We’ll see you on the green next year. Count on another remarkable event,” Howes said.

The camaraderie on the course is priceless among competing The winning team was, left to right, R.L. Dowdy, Mike Burns, William Schwab, and Michael Burns. law enforcement officers. 12 ______AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 News from pennsylvania n Department and governor honor state police military vets Gov. Tom Corbett joined Commissioner Frank Noonan and retired deployed overseas with the military. At the conclusion of the cere - U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Oliver North at a ceremony Sept. 1 rec - mony, each of the honorees received a Pennsylvania State ognizing the military service of Pennsylvania State Police personnel. Police/Military Service Award and certificate. After the ceremony, The ceremony, the first of its kind in Pennsylvania, honored more Corbett, Noonan, and Smart laid a wreath at the naval center’s memo - than 300 members of the state police who have also served in the U.S. rial to honor those killed on Sept. 11, 2001. armed forces since the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks. “This is something very close to my heart,” Noonan said. “It’s important to recognize the people who protect our country here and protect our country overseas. Since 9/11, we’ve had to respond to threats against our country at home and abroad. These are the people who respond.” Two state troopers have been killed in action while deployed with the Pennsylvania National Guard. The fami - lies of Tprs. Daniel R. Lightner Jr. and Scott R. Ball received special recognition at the event held at the Naval Support Activity Center in Mechanicsburg. North, the ceremony’s keynote speaker, is a combat-dec - orated Marine, earning the Silver Star and Bronze Star for Valor, and two Purple Hearts after being wounded in action. He is also the founder of the Freedom Alliance, o t o

which provides college scholarships for the children of h p

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service members killed in action. s t a W Also participating in the event was Maj. Gen. Wesley E. e v a

Craig, adjutant general of Pennsylvania, and Capt. James D Smart, the support center’s commanding officer. Meeting prior to program honoring the Pennsylvania State Police’s military veterans are, from Nearly 200 award recipients attended the ceremony, as left, Commissioner Frank Noonan; Maj. Gen. Wesley E. Craig, Pennsylvania’s adjutant general; well as families of state troopers who are currently Gov. Tom Corbett; and retired U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Oliver North. News from vermont u Troopers join fund razor for cancer kids Several troopers were part of the Cops cosmetologists who were assisted by the chil - Irene devastates United for Fighting Cancer’s 14th annual dren who attended Camp T-K-T. head shaving event in Burlington, Vt., on This year’s event raised over $25,000 and Aug. 5. This fundraising effort, CUFF for the 14th year, all proceeds were donated Cancer’s flagship event, once again bene - to Camp T-K-T. To date CUFF Cancer has fited Camp Ta-Kum-Ta, a traditional one donated over $250,000 to the camp. week summer camp for children ages 7 to CUFF Cancer, founded by Vermont State 17 who currently have, or have had cancer. Police Lts. Michael Macarilla and John Members of the public safety community, Flannigan, is a non-profit organization to include police, fire, and rescue personnel, whose primary mission is to raise funds and as well as community members, collected awareness for cancer-related causes with a funds and in turn, had their heads shaved by focus on support programs for children.

The home of a state trooper with the was washed away during the flooding of Hurri - cane Irene in August. Three other Vermont state troopers suffered damage from Irene, but state troop - ers along the Northeast set aside their personal needs to protect the citizens in need by providing traffic Sgt. Greg Campbell, left, and Lt. Michael Macarilla of the Vermont State Police, get their heads shaved in control, evacuation efforts, and rescue missions, the fundraiser. both day and night. AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 ______13 News from florida K

Oldest AAST Florida member

At age 95, the oldest member of AAST’s Florida same disease in 2007. Simmons is the proud father chapter remembers well the changes and challenges of three children, with three grandchildren and six that accompanied his career with the Florida High - great grandchildren. way Patrol. Simmons’ starting FHP salary was $125 per The Great Depression was slowly ending and month, which progressed to $150 per month by the the Second World War just beginning when the end of 1941. By 1953, Simmons’ salary increased state of Florida formed a highway patrol in 1939 to $225 per month. Simmons, 1970s to provide enforcement for its motor vehicle traf - Simmons remembers other details that have fic. The future was uncertain for 23-year-old changed over the years. When he began, the patrol Hardy “Lee” Simmons, as jobs were had 60 members, and each trooper worked 12-hour scarce when the FHP initially started. days with one day off each week. The FHP vehicles Born on Feb. 19, 1916, in St. Cloud, Fla., during the late 1940s were Fords with Mercury Simmons attended the University of Florida engines. He remembers their Stetson hats, patterned for two years and worked various jobs before after the , but just after he he joined the St. Cloud Police Department in retired, the agency went to the campaign-style hats. 1941. Four months later, he joined the FHP. A highlight of his career was in 1964 when he Upon the successful completion of the was placed in charge of a 150-man force, consisting FHP exam, Simmons embarked upon a 37- of FHP troopers, Fish and Wildlife officers, and year career with FHP. Upon his first state prison guards to provide security in St. Augus - assignment, Simmons was supposed to tine during a demonstration, during which time he attend the next FHP recruit school, but with met the Rev. Martin Luther King. the constraints of WWII, he never went. In Through his career, the colonel said he truly enjoyed 1943, he was promoted to sergeant, being working with the people and received a wide range of drafted by the U.S. Navy two years later. knowledge from his experiences with the patrol. He He returned to the FHP in 1945 and rose currently lives with his daughter in Tallahassee, and his through the ranks, in 1957 becoming major, mind is just as sharp as when he was on the patrol. which at the time was called inspector. For the AAST’s oldest living member is Connecticut next 14 years, Simmons was responsible for all FHP State Police retiree Edward Steele, 98. Simmons is AAST Executive Director Ken inspections throughout the state. In 1972 he was pro - second oldest nationwide. Howes, right, joins Lee Sim - moted to lieutenant colonel, deputy director of the mons, his fellow retired FHP entire FHP Division. lieutenant colonel, at a 2008 Simmons retired in 1978 and lost his first wife to Excerpts reprinted from the Florida DHSMV retiree breakfast. Alzheimer’s in 1993, and his second wife to the Expressways.

News from colorado G helps apprehend Florida fugitives On August 10 at about 9 a.m., Colorado were apprehended by local law enforcement rifle while another was photographed by a state troopers received a tip from a citizen that officers shortly after the crash. The third security camera waving a machine pistol, three sibling fugitives from Florida were in the male suspect fled on foot and was appre - the FBI said. area of Colorado City. After a short pursuit, all hended by CSP a short time later. three fugitives were apprehended. The three sibling fugitives, all in The vehicle was spotted at a campground their 20s, were charged with four on Highway 165 near Colorado City. When counts of first-degree assault on a the deputies arrived, the vehicle was gone, peace officer. but a Pueblo County sheriff’s deputy soon According to reports, the arrests spotted the vehicle at a nearby gas station. ended the nationwide manhunt for Members of the Colorado State Patrol the siblings that began Aug. 2. The attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but the three are suspected of firing at suspects did not cooperate, and a high-speed least 20 shots at a Florida officer pursuit ensued. Preliminary investigation who tried to pull them over for determined that shots were fired from the speeding in a chase at speeds up to suspect’s vehicle at troopers during the pur - 100 mph. suit. The vehicle crashed shortly after Hours later, three people wearing troopers deployed stop sticks on southbound masks robbed a bank in Valdosta, I25 near Walsenburg. Ga., about 210 miles north. One The sibling fugitives’ vehicle crashed after stop sticks were Two suspects, one male and one female, robber brandished an AK-47 assault deployed. 14 ______AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 News from kentucky S Safety message saves teen lives, earns scholarships Thirty-three students from 30 different schools throughout Kentucky grad - uated from the Drive to Stay Alive academy, Sept. 7-11 at the KSP Training Academy in Frankfort. KSP instructors taught the students numerous safe driving techniques with hands-on road driving and classroom exercises, including impaired driving dangers, seat belt safety, and distracted and aggressive driving. Public Affairs Branch Commander Lt. David Jude explained that the DTSA pro - gram was designed not only to decrease teen crashes, but to provide students with the tools to be advocates in their own communities. According to Jude, the real potential of the DTSA program begins after the students return to their schools. “The students are teamed with an experienced state trooper to spread the message to the student body in each school and to their community as well,” Jude said. “The effectiveness of the program is based on the concept that a message conveyed by a fellow student carries more weight with other stu - dents and is, therefore, more memorable.” DTSA students are evaluated and scored on the safe driving programs they present in their respective schools and communities, and students with the Distracted driving and backing skills are most effective programs, resulting in increased seat belt usage, are eligible for among numerous topics taught by troopers. scholarship funds. The DTSA program is funded through KSP and a grant from State Farm Insurance Company.

Kentucky welcomes new troopers The Kentucky State Police Academy presented diplomas to 60 new troopers at Oct. 26 ceremonies, bringing the agency’s strength to a total of 914 troopers.

Humor on the Highways Man too drive to drunk by Cpl. Michael Farrell He leaned toward the window and angrily yelled, “What do you Alabama State Troopers mean, can you help me? You’re the one who pulled me over!” At this point, I could smell the alcohol reeking from the vehicle and Eighteen years ago, I was a rookie trooper knew the motorist was heavily intoxicated. Not sure quite what to do, riding with my field training officer. We were I told the motorist to sit tight for just a minute. I walked back to the parked on the shoulder of Hwy. 231, south of patrol car and told my training officer, “The driver is drunk and he Farrell Montgomery, Ala. It was midnight and we had thinks that we pulled him over. What do I do?” just finished writing a ticket and had released the violator. We still My training officer yelled back, “Arrest his #$$!” We arrested the had our blue lights flashing and our inside dome light was on as my subject for DUI and took him to jail. He pled guilty, never knowing training officer was showing me how to record the ticket on my daily that he pulled himself over that night. activity log. Traffic was very light, almost nonexistent. A pickup truck coming Send your humorous on-the-job story (300 words max), along with your from behind passed by and suddenly pulled onto the shoulder of the photo, for consideration in the Trooper Connection newsletter: road in front of us, sliding to a stop. My training officer told me to [email protected] or get out of the patrol car and go see what the motorist wanted. AAST As I approached the vehicle, I noticed a man sitting behind the Humor on the Highways wheel. As I got close to the driver’s side window, I asked him, “Sir, 1949 Raymond Diehl Rd. can I help you?” Tallahassee, FL 32308 AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 ______15 Paying tribute for the ultimate sacrifice AAST pays tribute to the trooper who was recently killed in the line of duty. We honor those who have given their lives in service to their departments and their community. AAST was proud to make a donation from its Brotherhood Assistance fund to Toney’s surviving family. eling northbound on US Highway 65, pos - extinguished, and Toney was pro - Iowa sibly with his emergency lights activated, nounced dead at the scene. Following when his patrol car left the roadway and an investigation and autopsy, the Tpr. Mark Toney, 43, of the Iowa State landed in a field west of the highway. Wit - cause of the crash was unknown. Patrol died September 20 in a single nesses called 911 shortly before 4:40 p.m. A 24-year veteran of the ISP, vehicle car crash near Indianola, Iowa. Emergency responders found the patrol Toney is survived by two sons and According to witnesses, Toney was trav - car fully engulfed in flames. The fire was his parents. Toney

2011/12 scholarship recipients named Awards exceed $2.1 million AAST Scholarship Foundation officials approved 175 scholar - million in scholarships to 2,967 students since the program’s ships totaling $117,000 to be awarded to AAST members’ children inception in 1990. for the 2011/12 term. Scholarship applications are processed each year by the AAST Of those, 116 were first-time recipients of an AAST scholar - Scholarship Foundation to determine applicant eligibility. Scholar - ship, while 41 were awarded a $1,000 scholarship for ships are to be used at approved post-secondary institutions for the maintaining a minimum 3.5 grade point average during the first 2011-12 term. For additional information about the AAST scholar - scholarship period. A third AAST scholarship of $1,000 was ship program, visit www.statetroopers.org . awarded to 18 students who maintained a minimum 3.8 GPA dur - AAST salutes the members’ children listed below who have dis - ing the second scholarship period. AAST has awarded over $2.1 played scholastic excellence.

Alabama Sean Riordan*** Louisiana Montana Christopher Hennessy Abigail Brown Texas Washington Logan Balandrin Shannon Riordan*** Camryn Morgan** Jessica Finley Kevin Howard Steven Brown Heather Brazil Christina Alexander** Reid Barnett Caitlin Salter** Tucker Finley Matthew Kealy Cameron Campbell Stacie Collins*** Nicole Divis Audrey Coachman Jabe Weaver** Massachusetts Brittany Kemp*** Shawnna Crago Amy Cosby Jennifer Divis*** Jon Dean Caroline Blazuk North Dakota Nathan Mercado Danielle Dorunda*** Derek Davis Kayla Haas Bianca Phillips Georgia Grace Delmolino** Sara Cushing Jeffrey Olson Ian Gayman Hanna Drabble Toria Messinger** Jessica Smith Nathaniel Allen Robert Leverone** Alexa Patnaude Kate Gillen Mycah Druesedow Tabitha Bentley Melanie Prior Nebraska Kayla Patnaude Brendon Ignatz Taylor Fain West Virginia California Holly Robinson Alyssa Warawka Jonathan Price Olivia Ramos Christopher Ignatz Jordan Hooper Samantha Bennett Bailie Hagerman Jonathan Shanks** Nicole Ramos** Megan Killgallon Haley Hunt*** Lindsey Burner Marcus Mezzano Austin Tyler Maryland Nevada Matthew Robillard*** Dane Kopas** Taylor Kelm Alexander Butcher Chelsea Rosendahl Rachel Herron Brian Hagedorn Cole Schmitt Michael Ludwig Taryn Kelm** Haley Cahill Iowa Holly Hovis*** Mackenzie Smith Amanda Polca Tareyn Morris** Erika Goff** Connecticut Elisabeth Bulver New Mexico Bridgett Smith*** Jennifer Ravotti Nole Opperman Allison Helmick Kaitlyn MacLean** Stephanie Clemens Michigan Megan Cohagen Dylan VanZandt Nicole Schau Laura Weber** Natalie Jones Shane Olsen Isaiah Miller David Young** Kristen Taylor** Alisha Windham Jenny Long** Kathryn Rowes New York Oklahoma Steven Valencic Joshua McCabe Celeste Sivori Illinois Minnesota Melanie Badding Loren Fox Utah Ryan Satterfield Jeffrey Tolliver Joseph Hanson Carl Beno*** Kersten Franks South Carolina Miranda Williams** Matthew Sloan Florida Derek Thooft** Kelsey Campbell*** Michael Gamble Danielle Spangler Lauren Bibeau** Indiana Annmarie Carey** Oregon Courtney Gamble*** Vermont Gabriel Starcher Valerie Bryant*** Taylor Havens Missouri Lyle Connor Laura Hanson** Courtney Kelly** Sarah Cornell John Cataldo Kate McDougal Jordon Hull Marina Cumoletti Lindsey Helman Britanny Watson*** Jessica Ledo Wyoming Kevin Dill Carrie Weber Madison Lyon Mattea Cumoletti** Cassandra Kammerman Chantal Marcoux Marisa DeClercq Jennifer Dixon Blake Smith** Elizabeth DeLuca** Alex Melton Tennessee Erica Fitchett Kentucky Gregory Faughnan** Madeline Moore** Brittany Broadway** Virginia ** Second-time Mason Guy Whitney Antle** Mississippi Patrick Faughnan** Eric Olson Jacob Everett Joshua Crawford** scholarship recipient Christopher Harrison** Andrew Salman Paige Dawkins Mark Ferritto Michaela Willis Erin Jackson*** Brendan Hood Emily Hudson** Taylor Stapleton Samuel Henderson** Sarah Ferritto Taylor Mansfield James Mitchell** *** Third-time Cara Hulion*** Ashley Sutton** Jeremy Roy** Stefanie Fresenius** Pennsylvania Wesley Sakarapanee scholarship recipient Heather McDonald Emily Turner Ross Hansen*** Nicole Battestilli** Matthew Walker

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16 ______AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 New directors take lead of departments AAST proudly introduces the new leaders of the following departments. We wish you all the best as you take on the challenges of your new position. Florida Dept. of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles Washington, D.C., area. He spent five years at the Wilmington, N.C., Police David B. Conklin Jr. was named in Conklin retired at the rank of lieu - Department as deputy chief before May as deputy executive director of tenant colonel from the Virginia State joining the Florida DHSMV. the Florida Department of Highway Police in 2005 after 25 years of serv - Conklin has a master’s degree in Safety and Motor Vehicles, which ice, before which he served with the criminal justice from Virginia Com - oversees the Florida Highway Metropolitan and Prince George monwealth University, as well as Patrol. County’s Police Departments in the bachelor and associate degrees. Conklin Mark McDonough was approved by the combat missions in support of Operation Georgia State Patrol Board of Public Safety in July as commis - Desert Storm, earning numerous awards. sioner of the Georgia Department of He began his career with the DPS in officer of the Georgia State Patrol. Public Safety, having previously served as 1995 and graduated from the 70th Geor - As a graduate of the Georgia Law deputy commissioner. gia State Patrol Trooper School. His Enforcement Command College, McDonough graduated from the U.S. assignments have included serving as a McDonough received a master’s degree Naval Academy at Annapolis and was trooper, a pilot in the Aviation Division, in public administration from Colum - commissioned as a second lieutenant in Legislative liaison and executive assistant bus State University and is also a the Marine Corps. McDonough flew 35 to the commissioner, and commanding graduate of the FBI National Academy. McDonough

Maryland State Police sioner of operations for the Baltimore Maryland State Sentencing Commission. Police Department, responsible for over He is an active credentialed assessor for Marcus L. Brown was named super - 3,000 officers and all operational units. the Commission on Accreditation for Law intendent of the Maryland State Police, A graduate of The Pennsylvania State Enforcement Agencies and is a certified effective August 1. University and the University of Baltimore facilitator for Franklin Covey’s The Nobil - He most recently served as chief of the School of Law, Brown is a member of the ity of Policing Workshop. He currently Maryland Transportation Authority Police Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National serves as the 2nd vice president of the and previously served as deputy commis - Executive Institute and serves on the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association. Brown Bernie Curtis was appointed chief of County, Wash., Sheriff’s Department the Nevada Highway Patrol in July. before being elected to two terms with He started his law enforcement the Douglas County, Nev., Commis - of Parole and Probation. career at the Butte County, Calif., Sher - sion. He was employed by the Carson Curtis attended Chico State College, iff’s Department in 1968, and four City Sheriff’s Department and subse - Butte College, the University of years later, he returned to Nevada and quently the Nevada Department of Nevada, and the University of Virginia. worked as a deputy sheriff in Douglas Motor Vehicles and Public Safety as the He is a graduate of the Traffic Institute County, retiring in 1994 after serving deputy director for Public Safety. He at Northwestern University, the Federal the last 18 years as the undersheriff. was later named chief of the Nevada Law Enforcement Training Center, and Curtis Curtis then worked with the San Juan Department of Public Safety’s Division the FBI National Academy.

Pennsylvania State Police was promoted to chief of criminal investigations for the office of attorney Frank Noonan was confirmed by the from the FBI in 1998, Noonan was general in 2009. state Senate in April as commissioner appointed as northeast regional director Noonan received the Linda E. of the Pennsylvania State Police. for the attorney general’s Bureau of Richardson Commitment to Excellence Noonan began his career in 1971 as Narcotics Investigation, in which Award, the most prestigious award an FBI agent, investigating public cor - capacity he oversaw some of the largest given by the Pennsylvania Narcotics ruption, drugs, bank robberies, and drug cases in the history of northeast Officers’ Association. He is a graduate Noonan kidnappings. Following his retirement Pennsylvania. After 11 years, Noonan of West Chester University.

David G. Baker was named deputy Baker has been with DPS for over 33 Texas DPS director of the Texas DPS Law Enforce - years and most recently served as assis - ment Operations, effective Sept. 1. In tant director/chief of the Texas ton; he promoted to sergeant in 1988, this role he will oversee law enforce - Highway Patrol since 2009. Baker lieutenant in 1993, captain in 1996, and ment divisions and coordination of began his career in 1978 as a trooper in major in 2002 stationed at DPS head - multidivision operations. Lubbock and his hometown of Perry - quarters in Austin.

Baker AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 ______17 With Thanks

Idaho trooper’s son on road to recovery Thankful for help of brother troopers Just over a year ago, AAST notified our members by e-mail about a serious medical condition of trooper Jason Bailey’s 2-year-old son, Wyatt, and his family’s need of finan - cial assistance to care for their sick child. Wyatt’s medical condition forced him to live on an expensive formula. He could not eat solid foods, and without this formula, Wyatt suffers from severe intestinal illness. The formula cost the Bailey family over $2,000 a month and, unfortunately, was not covered by their insurance. AAST members throughout the country responded to the call to assist a brother trooper with over $12,000 in donations, all of which were mailed to Tpr. Bailey on our members’ behalf. Tpr. Jason Bailey, pictured with son, The following is an October update from Tpr. Bailey: Wyatt, is grateful for the help provided by troopers across the Dear AAST Members & Staff: country in his time of need. I have been patiently waiting for an appropriate time to give an update on Wyatt. We have been through a lot of ups and downs this spring and summer; however, I believe we are finally in a new stage with Wyatt, and his body is accepting foods we have never been able to give him. We noticed this summer his reactions seemed to be minimizing; nonetheless, he was still react - ing to everything like he was before we started all this. It has been within the last month we noticed his reactions are slowly turning into very minimal and even absent reactions on occa - sions to foods he had definitely been unable to eat. We are still supplementing his diet with the formula; however, we finally have hope we are near the end with all this and Wyatt is well on his way to a normal diet. I think back on this time last year, and I had no idea where this was going, much less end up. While it has been a very long and frustrating year, we also have so much to be thankful for, and we could not be happier with the way things are progressing. The generous support we were given will never be forgotten and will serve as a model to which my family will strive to live up to. We thank all the AAST members and staff.

Sincerely, The Baileys

Notify AAST of your Address Change JOIN US TODAY! Annual Membership Dues only $30. Member name ______Benefits and Services available to AAST Members: • $5,000 term life insurance* Member number ______• Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance* New address ______• Line-of-duty death benefit* • Scholarships for members’ qualified dependents City ______• Receipt of AAST’s national newsletter, Trooper Connection • Brotherhood assistance to distressed or injured troopers as funds State______Zip ______are available Phone ( ) ______• Special optional vision insurance benefit for retired members • Website for news, membership updates, and other features E-mail ______AAST is a not-for-profit organization and is not a union. It is a fraternal-type organization provid ing camaraderie and needed supplemental benefits to help improve troopers’ lives. Troopers eligible for Former address ______AAST membership include full-time active troopers, retired troopers who apply for membership within 12 months of their retirement date, and former troopers with 10 or more years of service City ______who apply for membership within 12 months of termination of employment with the agency.

State______Zip ______Call 1-800-765-5456 (ext. 204) for more information. Or mail the application along with your credit card information or check for $30 payable to AAST and a copy of your state ID card to AAST, 1949 Raymond Diehl Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32308. Or e-mail changes to National HQ, [email protected]. All benefits are reviewed periodically by the National Board of Directors and are subject to change without notice. * Six-month waiting period for new members

18 ______AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 AMERICAN ASSOCIATION American Association of State Troopers, Inc. OF STATE Membership Application TROOPERS , INC.

1949 Raymond Diehl Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308 • (800) 765-5456 • FAX (850) 385-8697 • www.statetroopers.org

AAST Trooper Connection January 2012 ______19 MERICAN A PRSRT STD ASSOCIATION U.S. POSTAGE OF PAID STATE MILWAUKEE, WI TROOPERS , INC. PERMIT NO. 5654 1949 Raymond Diehl Road Tallahassee, FL 32308

Salute to those serving

State troopers from seven different states are stationed at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Notice the state patrol flags hanging in the background. Pictured front row, left to right, L/Cpl. Jeffrey Martin, South Carolina Highway Patrol; Tpr. Warren Gibson, Nebraska State Patrol; Tpr. Mike Mallery, Nebraska State Patrol; and TFC Caroline Smith, . Back row, left to right, Sgt. Ben Coppage, Maryland State Police; Tpr. Jason Ruffin, ; Tpr. Kyle Draper, Rhode Island State Police; and Sgt. Charlie Kelton, Kentucky State Police. AAST salutes all state troopers who serve in the U.S. Armed Forces.