This was Explorer Kitchen’s second year attending the Explorer Academy. Explorer Kitchen was part of the honor guard team, won top female in physical fitness and graduated the Explorer Academy with the rest of her advanced platoon. The physical fitness test was based on the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards pre-employment physical agility test. This test includes a 1/2-mile shuttle run, pushups, sit ups and a vertical jump.
While at the Explorer Academy, Explorer Kitchen was part of a mock police department and responded to calls for service with other platoon Explorers. Explorer Kitchen participated in classroom learning, marching, and range time! Explorer Kitchen was allowed the opportunity to shoot a patrol rifle and a take part in the pistol course. Firearms safety was a primary topic. Explorer Kitchen had an individual coach, as well as several additional Range Safety Officers keeping a close eye on the group.
Explorer Kitchen attended classes covering criminal law, building searches, traffic crashes, domestic violence response, handcuffing/searching, and traffic stops. Each evening ended with a special demonstration - Eaton County K9 Roscoe, Kalamazoo Air Care helicopter, Michigan State Police Bomb Squad, Chief of Police Neal Rossow (ret), PT test, graduation practice, and ice cream served by the Academy Commander and staff!
Each Platoon had an inspection of their barracks and uniforms. As well as some drill and ceremony on the parade field. Explorer Kitchen’s Advanced Platoon group completed a series of obstacle courses with the guidance of their DI staff and the Academy Commander.