Team Leader Jeanne Graupmann and Postal Inspector Heidi Lescault talk about law enforcement responsibilities with Girl Scouts of Troop 6080 on Monday, Jan. 12 at the Crossfield Elementary School in Herndon. Photo by Tom Ouellette/U.S. Postal Inspection Service-Washington Division
More than a dozen Herndon-based Girl Scouts of Troop 6080 got a rare look at law enforcement careers during a visit from Postal Inspectors on Monday, Jan. 12, at Crossfield Elementary School.
“Our goal was to show the Girl Scouts how the Postal Inspection Service protects U.S. Mail and give them a behind-the-scenes look of our jobs as federal agents,” said Jeanne Graupmann, team leader, U.S. Postal Inspection Service -- Washington Division.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is the law enforcement arm of the U.S. Postal Service. Postal Inspectors are federal agents and are responsible for enforcing the more than 200 federal laws protecting the U.S. Mail from illegal or dangerous use.
The Girl Scouts received the opportunity to handle law enforcement equipment, including putting on protective vests, using handcuffs, communicating with radios and holding a protective shield.
Postal Inspectors also gave a presentation about Internet safety.
“As the use of popular social media websites grows, the likelihood of cyberbullying and other Internet hazards grow,” said Graupmann. “It’s important for young people to learn how to stay safe online.”
The Girl Scouts earned a new patch at the event. The organization of Women in Law Enforcement, or WIFLE, created a patch bearing their logo to award Girl Scouts who fulfilled certain requirements. WIFLE, collaborating with Girl Scouts of USA, created the patch in 2013 to help educate Girl Scouts of opportunities at law enforcement agencies.
“As a former Girl Scout, I was grateful for mentors who helped me explore different career options,” said Postal Inspector Dominique Giroux. “Meeting the Girl Scouts gave me an opportunity to return the favor and help them realize their potential to pursue any career they desire.”