In 1970, Camp Cadet was founded in Butler County, Pennsylvania for the youth of our area to participate in a worthwhile program to foster a good relationship and solve issues of misunderstanding between young people and the police.  This opportunity would not be possible without the vision, turned reality, of Retired Trooper Albert R. Vish.  He, along with retired Troopers John Prandy (dec.) and Robert Price, created an opportunity to provide youth with a positive attitude toward the law enforcement profession.  Thousands of youths have now taken part in the experience thanks to many law enforcement officers, businesses, and citizens who have selflessly dedicated enormous amounts of time, energy, and money for the youths.

There are now 26 Camp Cadet programs throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with Troop D Camp Cadet being the original. Troop D Camp Cadet also holds the distinction of being the first and only Camp Cadet to offer more than one year of opportunity for the youths. In fact, Troop D Camp Cadet offers Basic (Phase 1), CCLD – Camp Cadet Leadership Development (Phase 2) which was founded by Anthony Tripp and Kaleb Martin in 2013, and P.I.P. – Principles In Practice (Phase 3) which was founded by Emily Kesten and Gavin Terwilliger in 2015.Each program can be attended in three consecutive years and each benefit the youth in different ways.

The expectation in all phases is that the cadets will gain personal satisfaction and learn valuable character and leadership traits through instruction and overcoming challenges during their week at camp which is immersed in an atmosphere of discipline and regimentation.  Today’s objective is to build moral leaders and strengthen character in the areas of self-discipline, respect for self and others, patriotism, and integrity.

Although Camp Cadet is not a recruiting tool for law enforcement or the military, it does provide valuable insight to youths who may have an interest in such careers. For others it may even spark the interest for a cadet to follow in the career choice of those law enforcement personnel who prove to be a positive influence in their life.

Through the efforts of many dedicated volunteers and state and local law enforcement personnel, Camp Cadet continues to be a positive experience for all involved.

Troop D Camp Cadet is only made possible by the generous donations of individuals and businesses.

We welcome your interest in participating in or supporting the Pennsylvania State Police Troop D Camp Cadet program.

CCLD is an opportunity for past graduates of Phase 1 to become stronger leaders.  If you are motivated to build a solid base of leadership skills, CCLD wants you.

Who can apply for CCLD (Phase 2)?

Graduates of the Troop D Camp Cadet Phase 1 program who are under 18 years old and who continue to live by the standards of Troop D Camp Cadet are eligible to apply.  In addition to these applicants, any youth of good character who did not attend Phase 1 but is between the ages of 15-17 on the first day of camp can apply.  However, preference will be given to past graduates.

What will I learn at CCLD?

CCLD, or Camp Cadet Leadership Development, is an extension of learning of the Phase 1 program.  CCLD Cadets will undergo intense leadership training.  You will learn personal development techniques to mold a strong moral character making you fit to become a sound leader.  You will also be provided with training giving you a base of knowledge and skill to lead others in a positive direction in an effective manner.

What is CCLD like?

The same standards are expected of each CCLD Cadet as are expected of the Phase 1 Cadets.  CCLD Cadets are expected to arrive standing tall and looking sharp on day one to pick up right where they left off after Phase 1.  It is expected that each CCLD Cadet conduct himself or herself with the highest standards of honor and self-discipline without the instructors having to “re-teach” these traits.  You will eat and do PT with the Phase 1 Cadets.  You will sometimes act as instructors and leaders for the Phase 1 Cadets by attending some of their competitions, drill practice, and other activities.  CCLD Cadets will also be taking part in their own intense training of leadership education separate from the other phases at the camp.  If you did not attend Phase 1, don’t worry, we will get you up to speed.

P.I.P. is for past graduates of Phase 2 who are motivated to put what they have learned in Phase 1 and CCLD into practice by taking charge while also attending self-improvement classes and other camp activities.

Who can apply for P.I.P. (Phase 3)?

Graduates of the Troop D Camp Cadet CCLD (Phase 2) program who are under 18 years old and who continue to live by the standards of Troop D Camp Cadet are eligible to apply.  Participation in Phase 3 requires a previous or future commitment to year round activities which benefit Troop D Camp Cadet and the applicant.  These activities include fundraising, Phase 1 recruiting, and/or public awareness presentations.

What will I learn at P.I.P?

P.I.P. is an extension of learning of the Phase 1 and CCLD programs as well as an opportunity to put your learning into real world practice gaining valuable education, experience, and contacts.  P.I.P. Cadets will undergo success and motivation training teaching you how to apply your Camp Cadet skills outside of camp.  You will continue to learn personal development techniques to mold a strong moral character making you fit to become successful.  Some skills that you will learn are job seeking and interview skills, courtesy, fundraising, public speaking, networking, and positive thinking.

What is P.I.P. like?

Even higher standards are expected of each P.I.P Cadet as are expected of the Phase 1 and CCLD Cadets.  P.I.P. Cadets are expected to arrive standing tall and looking sharp on day one to pick up right where they left off after Phase 2.  The atmosphere at the camp for a P.I.P. Cadet will not be as rigid as Phase 1 and CCLD.  We presume that each P.I.P. Cadet will have the ability to easily conduct his or her self with the utmost honor and self-discipline.  You will eat with all other phases of cadets.  You will have many responsibilities in leading the underclassmen in PT, drill, and other activities as you will be heavily relied upon as a jr. counselor.  You will attend some classes of Phase 1 and CCLD to observe and provide feedback to staff.  You will be expected to constantly provide feedback in relation to all aspects of Phase 1 and CCLD as well as P.I.P. in regard to improving the programs.  You will have self-improvement classes as well as brainstorming meetings regarding future Troop D Camp Cadet fundraising and recruiting.  Throughout the year you have the opportunity to conduct the fundraising and recruiting programs that P.I.P. had developed.