The United States Park Police helicopter "Eagle 2" near the United States Capitol Building. (Courtesy NPS / R. MULLER)

The United States Park Police is holding it's next Citizens' Academy next month, and they're looking for people to apply to participate. I was a member of their first Academy back in October 2016 and found it to be a fascinating experience and a great opportunity to learn about one of the oldest police departments in the United States -- one that started with only two officers! They do so much more than you ever thought!

I highly recommend participating in the Academy.

The United States Park Police will present their Citizens’ Academy starting Wednesday, September 20th, 2017. The classes will be held on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 pm to 9:00pm. and run through November 15, 2017 at the United States Park Police Anacostia Operations Facility located at 1901 Anacostia Drive SW.

Investigators, trainers, station commanders and officers will explain the United States Park Police organization and police procedures. Attendees will observe what it is like to be a United States Park Police Officer. Topics include: Use of Force, Investigations, Special Forces operations, radio communications, emergency response, and much more.

To apply, please contact USPP Force Training Officer, Lt. Allan Stone. For any questions or for information on registering for the academy, please contact the U.S. Park Police Training Branch at (202) 610-3525.

You can download the application as a PDF, and I recommend you contact Lt. Stone first.

For more information, visit their Academy webpage.