Boone High School students participate in a retreat ceremony with FHP Academy recruits.

Recently, students from William R. Boone High School in Orlando came to Havana to take a tour of the Florida Highway Patrol Training Academy. Major Richard Mechlin greeted the students with a welcoming speech and answered their many questions. The high school’s visit has become an annual event for the students and our FHP Academy staff.

Academy Director Major Richard Mechlin speaks to the students.

From the moment the students first arrive, they are treated just like new trooper recruits on their first day at the academy. They learn several things, including how to line up and march in formation; the proper way to salute; and how to participate in an end of the day retreat ceremony. The popular tour always includes a visit to the special Memorial area where photos of fallen troopers who were killed in the line of duty hang on the wall and the FHP Memorial Statue is on display. Throughout the tour, academy staff was available to talk with the students and answer their questions. At the end of the tour, students were taken to the driving and firing ranges before heading home.

Additional Photos

Take a virtual tour of the FHP Academy.