3.28.10

Hello To All,

Oh, week 12, week 12, how thou hast tortured and tried our cadet, alas to no avail. Our cadet has thwarted all attempts to be brought down.

Physical Methods of Arrest Certifications - Passed

Reports - Done

Tests - Passed

High Speed - PASSED!!

Last week was one of the busiest and most difficult weeks yet. Hell week was all rainbows and balloons in comparison. Ryan has emerged from this arduous week triumphant and confident from all that he has over come. I believe that the lessons learned from this week will fuel him through what is yet to come.

An exciting addition to range last week was the introduction to the shotgun ( Remington 870 pump action 12 gauge) and the AR-15. They did shoot and practice with the shotgun including the proper removal and use in the patrol car. They have not practiced with the AR-15 yet, but I'm sure it won't be long. These guns will not be issued to each officer as I had thought, they are a part of the armamentarium of each patrol car. Ryan has been enjoying range and has noted improvement with each class. This was his first week practicing with his new holster and tactical light. He chose to have the light attached to his gun rather than carrying a flashlight - that is one of the choices each cadet must make even though they will be trained both ways.

Each cadet is required to learn some Spanish basics and they have begun classes. Thankfully Ryan is already fluent and is able to speak, read and write in Spanish, so he is one of a few tutors for the other cadets. Finally, something he already knows, something easy! Later Ryan will be able to test and be considered a Bi-Lingual Officer which warrants him a slight pay increase. Holler!

This week seems to be a lot more calm, but they may turn up the heat before the new nasty's come next Monday. Even though time wise they are the Senior class they have yet to earn Senior class status. Ryan has to work this Sunday for the new cadet orientation. Part of working that day is showing the new nasty's how they drill. I wish I could be there to watch them do their drill.

It's hard to believe 3 months ago Ryan was a new nasty coming into the unknown and now at the end of this week he will be half way through. Time has flown by and graduation will be here before we know it!!

Week 13...here we go!

Amy