PENN RUN, Pa. – Governor Tom Wolf on Friday visited with 39 campers at Indiana County Pennsylvania State Police Camp Cadet held at Camp Seph Mack in Penn Run.
The week-long camp introduces girls and boys age 12 to 15 to the diverse criminal justice system and helps to establish a positive relationship with law enforcement personnel.
“The campers at the state police Camp Cadet today (Friday) were having an incredible experience investigating a mock crime scene and doing team-building exercises with Pennsylvania National Guard members,” Gov. Wolf said. “I was really excited to join them for part of their day and share some of their experience. I believe they all learned a lot and will really benefit from the experience. I know I did.”
Governor Wolf was met by Pennsylvania State Police Troop A commanders and the campers who put on a marching demonstration for the governor. The governor then participated in the Indiana County coroner-led mock crime scene investigation where campers located evidence and clues and formulated theories to help solve a crime.
Later in the tour, the governor watched as campers participated in team-building exercises and an obstacle course under the direction of the Pennsylvania National Guard. Last, the governor visited the camp’s overnight campsite with more camp participants.
The Camp Cadet program was formed in 1970 by Pennsylvania State Trooper (Ret.) Albert R. Vish. For more than 40 years his idea has provided the inspiration for the establishment of other Camp Cadet Programs across Pennsylvania. Now, Camp Cadet programs are established in 30 Pennsylvania counties.
“Troopers look forward to Camp Cadet each summer because it allows us to interact with young people in an enjoyable, active setting and helps build positive relationships between law enforcement and the communities we serve,” said Captain Jeffrey Fisher, commanding officer of Troop A. “Thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers and tremendous community support, we are able to provide our cadets a week where they can begin to learn about a career in law enforcement while also having a lot of fun.”
Camp Cadet is staffed by Pennsylvania State Troopers and other volunteers, is open to all youth and structured similarly to training at the Pennsylvania State Police Academy. All participants who attend Camp Cadet are addressed as “Cadet” during the week. Cadets are required to participate in all scheduled events, which a focus on discipline, self-esteem, physical fitness, teamwork, drug and alcohol education, violence prevention, and many other issues facing today’s youth. Cadets work together throughout the week to complete individual and team-oriented tasks.
“Thank you to the Pennsylvania State Police, the Indiana County coroner’s office, the Pennsylvania National Guard and the many volunteers who make Camp Cadet a reality,” Governor Wolf said. “This dedicated group is helping these young campers learn many valuable lessons, forming lasting life lessons, memories, and friendships.”
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