State Trooper Mark Bernd

Rising from the chaos of the lawless 19th century was a proud, powerful Force. Dedicated servants of Justice, the Pennsylvania State Troopers wrestled the furthest regions of our great state into lawful submission. The Great Anthracite [Coal] Strike of 1902 spurred three years of local violence and disrupted the coal industry's economy, finally ending with President Theodore Roosevelt's intervention. When disruptions subsided, the state legislature, along with Governor Samuel W. Pennypacker, created a new executive department in 1905 - the Pennsylvania State Police. Created as the first state-wide uniformed service organization in the country, Pennsylvania State Police was - and continues to be - a model for the rest of our union's states to follow.

Four Troops were created in 1905, and their divisions still hold today. Troop A, centered in Greensburg, patrols the Alle-Kiski Valley. Troops B, C, and D add to a force responsible for protecting the entire state. Troops consist of several barracks. Of particular interest is the Kiski Valley barracks located in Washington Township. Troopers are given a mandate to serve and protect rural areas, such as ours. While they can never override local police departments - a common myth now dispelled - they retain authority on our highways and in areas without local stations.

Trooper Mark Bernd of the Kiski Valley barracks describes the daily duties of a state trooper, "Every day brings something new." But Bernd confesses, "it's not like the TV dramas that suggest you're going to save the world or make a difference every day. But there is potential for an interesting day everyday." Something new can mean court appearances or office work, as well as a criminal or civil incident. Many days are spent on patrol, being alert, or "a slave to the [police] radio." With all that variety, a Trooper's attitude is summed up nicely by Bernd, "making a difference is your ultimate goal, but some days you just can't effect change." Dedicated public servants to the core, Bernd and his fellow Troopers have our safety and our lives on their hearts every time they suit up.

What sort of person chooses this life of service? Bernd is a good example. A four year Marine Corps veteran, he was well prepared for the six months of rigorous mental and physical training at the Police Academy. Having served our nation during his tour of duty, public service was in his blood. Bernd is in his 10th year as a Trooper. This veteran has some advice for prospective Troopers. "We don't want a Trooper enforcing laws that he can't abide by," he said. Troopers are especially responsible for safety on the roadways and Bernd notes "a clean driving record is very important." Finally, he notes that it is important to, "be good even when no one is watching." All excellent words to live by.

Former President Roosevelt would admire Bernd and his fellow Troopers, just as he did the historic, original force. In remarks made after their inception in 1905 he commended them. "I feel so strongly about them that the mere fact a man is honorably discharged from this Force would make me at once, and without hesitation, employ him for any purpose needing courage, prowess, good judgment, loyalty, and entire trustworthiness. This is a good deal to say of any organization, and I say it without qualification of the Pennsylvania Police."

Be sure to watch the interview with Trooper Mark Bernd at the video online. At Alle-Kiski Today Online you'll also find a public service announcement with Trooper Jeanne Martin of Greensburg. Martin outlines the process of becoming a State Trooper including education and physical requirements. Trooper Bernd will also demonstrate the proper use of a radar gun.