Jr. academy opened world of possibilities
Iwould like to tell you about my experience at the Junior Police Academy that I attended in East Brunswick. This program is available for ages 11-14.

When my mom told me that I was going, I was first shocked and scared because I didn't know what to expect. When the day came, we all got nice uniforms. I showed off my cover (hat), T-shirt, shorts and a water bottle to my parents, friends and neighbors.

During the week the officers taught us Internet safety, exercises and marching drills, and we went on field trips. On the field trips I found out that a police officer isn't all about being in a police car, writing tickets and stopping other cars or robbers. I learned that if you have an interest in SWAT teams, scuba diving, computers, K-9, detective work or aviation, this is the place to get a feel for it all.

My favorite times were when a flash bang went off and when I got to see a helicopter with long propellers. A flash bang is like a grenade because you pull a trigger and throw it before it goes off, but it makes an ear-popping large noise and an eye-disorienting flash that a regular grenade doesn't. The helicopter was the size of a small airplane. That was the most interesting time for me because of my obsession with aviation.

As you can see, you can specialize in any of these areas if you want to be a police officer.

On the last day of the week we were treated to pizza at the senior center. Also, we had a ceremony at night with our parents, and we took pictures with all the officers who trained us, Mayor William Neary and Township Council members David Stahl and Ed Luster. After the ceremony, several parents decided to celebrate our achievements at a local restaurant — I was so happy.

I told my mom that I want to go again next year because it is fun.I

would like to thank Director of Public Safety Barry Roberson, police officers Michael Knoll, Frank LoSacco and Jason Haykel, and all the officers from the East Brunswick Police Department who took the time to teach. One day, I may work there, too.
Mark Robinson
Sixth Grade
Hammarskjold Middle
School
East Brunswick