DO NOT REPLY
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
IDAHO STATE POLICE NEWS RELEASE
Teresa Baker
Public Information Officer
Headquarters
700 S. Stratford Dr., Meridian 83642
(208) 884-7122
Fax (208) 884-7087
For Immediate Release: 12/31/13 at 3:30 p.m.
MERIDIAN - Idaho State Police Troopers will soon be adorning badges with a vintage look to mark its 75th year. The commemorative badge was specially designed to resemble the one worn by the earliest officers of the Bureau of Constabulary, the predecessor to the Idaho State Police. The badge is a five point star in a circle with the words "Idaho State Police - 75th Anniversary" and list the years "1939-2014" engraved in black. Each Trooper has his or her car number in the center of the star. The majority of the badges are silver and command staff will wear a gold badge. The badges will be worn during the entire year of 2014.
Although the beginnings of ISP's responsibilities in protecting the public began in 1919 under the Bureau of Constabulary, ISP celebrates its anniversary based upon the Legislature's passage of the Idaho State Police Act. This Act was signed into law on February 20, 1939 by Governor C.A. Bottolfsen, thus making the upcoming new year the 75th Anniversary of the Idaho State Police.
"To wear the badge of the Idaho State Police is an honor for every Trooper who has ever had a badge pinned on their uniform," said Colonel Ralph Powell, Director of the Idaho State Police. "The historic badge is a special reminder of the long line of the brave men and women that have protected this great state since the times of unrest when the agency was formed until today. We are especially mindful of the five Troopers that made the ultimate sacrifice serving our citizens."
The celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Idaho State Police will continue with involvement in community events being planned throughout the 2014 calendar year throughout Idaho.
Although the commemorative badges are not for sale to the public, the Idaho State Police Association has commissioned several 75th Anniversary items that are available on their website. Those items include the book Without Compromise, a historical perspective published in honor of ISP's 75th anniversary. Proceeds benefit the Idaho State Police Association, a non-profit organization comprised of current and retired ISP employees. The website address is www.ispaonline.org.
-------------
