Especially important during this time of uneasy relations between some citizens and police in this country, State Police Troop M sponsored its annual Camp Cadet at Camp Fowler, Orefield.

This year, 91 campers ages 12 to 15, checked in for a week of structured activities aimed at re-creating actual state police training.

The campers focused on discipline, self-esteem and teamwork.

Activities included K-9 and radar demonstrations, visits from a state police helicopter, as well as representatives from the FBI and Secret Service.

Trooper Marc Allen, community services officer, oversees the week.

The camp is staffed by state troopers, local police and many community volunteers.

According to Allen, many cadets begin the week nervous and timid but all exit with a new found sense of respect for themselves, a greater understanding of the criminal justice system, and a positive relationship with law enforcement officers.

Many cadets eventually move on to become junior camp counselors.

“You don’t leave here learning anything that’s not worth it,” said Junior Counselor Michael,of Kintnersville. “This camp is an influential program that shapes us all to understand and to relate to one another.”