HOULTON, Maine — A graduation ceremony was held in Houlton Friday, July 27 to recognize the hard work, commitment and leadership demonstrated by several area youths.
A group of 11 students from Houlton Station Post No. 1820 and nine from Fort Fairfield Post No. 194 completed the two-week U.S. Border Patrol Explorer Program Basic Academy. Law Enforcement Exploring is a “Learning for Life” program founded by the Boy Scouts of America.
The new Explorers received national certifications in First Aid/CPR/AED and NRA Basic Pistol. The intent of the basic academy is to introduce high school aged students (14 to 18 years old) to law enforcement as a potential career choice. The Houlton Border Patrol Station sponsors Explorer Post No. 1820.
Graduates from Houlton were Joshua Foster, Silas Graham, Jean-Luc Desrosiers, Braden Dow, Joel Carmichael, Taylor Fitzpatrick, Joshua McGillicuddy, Isabelle Cosby, Emmalyne Drake, Victoria Forbush and Amile Desrosiers.
“This is a voluntary program and these young people are to be commended for their drive and determination,” said Houlton Station Patrol Agent in Charge Brent Conley. “It is a challenging two- weeks, both physically and mentally, and the hot and humid weather has been an additional challenge. Today, these young men and women are receiving some much-deserved recognition for their efforts.”
“Fort Fairfield Post No. 194 has nine new Explorers that have recently completed our Basic Academy,” said Fort Fairfield Deputy Patrol Agent in Charge John Krause. “Our formal graduation ceremony for Post No. 194 will be held later in the fall. Much like Houlton, Fort Fairfield Post No. 194 has an amazing group of kids that are eager to learn and that are dedicated to serving in their communities.”
If you, or someone that you know may be interested in an upcoming Explorer Post Basic Academy, or have questions concerning the program, please contact U.S. Border Patrol Houlton Sector Headquarters at: (207) 532-6521.
