Who Are the Franklin Explorers?

Who are the Explorers and what are they doing in Williamson County? That was my first question during the Main Street festival, as I witnessed the same 6 young people running all over the place helping with traffic, crowd control, lost and missing children and more. I was impressed by the service, dedication, courtesy and professionalism displayed by the Explorers.

Law Enforcement Exploring is an education program for high school students and above from ages 14 to 21, where young people get the opportunity to get personally involved in the community. Learning about Law Enforcement and attending bi monthly meetings for training prepares these youth to be better citizens and promotes their interest in the career field. After attending a recent meeting and talking with the youth and instructors, I have a new appreciation for our Law Enforcement professionals in Williamson County.

Explorers start each meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance then prepare for the 2 hour training. Uniform inspections were done and equipment issued. All uniforms and equipment are provided by the Franklin Police Department, even the youth’s membership fees are sponsored by officers. Four officers were volunteering their time on this evening as were two adult citizen mentors.

Cameron Kowalski, 19, has been in the program the longest of those present and says he does it to give back. Although the pony tail flowing down the back of his uniform might fool you, he is nothing but professional when it comes to Exploring. “Getting to go on a ride-along with officers and seeing what they have to deal with daily was eye opening,” says Kowalski. “It is harder than I had anticipated.”

Officer Rose Steagall is heading up the program in Franklin. She has been with the force for 6 years, and affiliated for another 11 years. She enjoys giving time to the youth and being there for them, as do all of the adults giving to the program. Safety is their first and foremost rule and Explorers undergo training in CPR, Traffic safety and other police tasks throughout the year.

Twenty young people have wandered through the program in the last year and 19 were present at this week’s meeting. Fifteen males and 4 females learned gun safety and handling as instructors led them through scenarios with rubber weapons.

Explorers are present at almost all community events. Stop by and say hello to one of our future leaders and find out why they choose to serve you and the community.

Photo By: www.Franklintn.gov