Defending Champions Florida Highway Patrol has claimed a back-to-back victory thanks to spectacular “Out-of-This-World” photo taken on the Space Coast.
The American Association of State Troopers (AAST) has announced that once again, Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) are the 2024 winner of its annual America's Best Looking Cruiser Competition.
With the invaluable support of Space Florida and the crucial assistance from the United Launch Alliance (ULA) and the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), FHP was able to secure a photo taken at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station's Space Launch Complex on April 18, 2024, during the final liftoff of the United Launch Alliance(ULA) Delta IV Heavy.
The legendary rocket known for its performance and history of delivering high-priority national security payloads for the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) for over 63 years is now retired, but not before teaming up with FHP to compete in this year’s best-looking cruiser competition.
Aspiring photographer Sean Stoltz captured the incredible final launch of the Delta IV Heavy while an FHP 2019 Dodge Challenger took center focus.
This year, we took the competition to new heights and were able to showcase Florida’s Space Coast," said Executive Director Dave Kerner. "I am proud of my team and grateful for the incredible support we have seen from our public safety partners, state leaders, and most importantly, our citizens. Thank you for backing the black and tan.”
"This competition is very important to our troopers, who are truly ambassadors for Florida," said FHP Colonel Gary Howze II. Florida came together for the win, but the real winner is the public that benefits from cooperative law enforcement nationwide working toward public safety. I am incredibly proud of our FHP Family and our Florida law enforcement partners, who truly made it happen back-to-back!"
Rob Long, president and CEO, Space Florida said, “We're thrilled to see Florida claim victory for the second year in a row and are grateful to the Florida Highway Patrol for their partnership and collaboration. This well-deserved win celebrates our state's leadership in both public safety and space technology."
The competition, which kicked off on July 15, 2024, saw a record 49 states participate. Over the course of two weeks, each state rallied its citizens to cast their votes, making it one of the most engaging contests in its history.
Last year, FHP celebrated its first win, making history and taking home the title thanks to the help of a Florida gator! Florida proudly placed first with over 180K votes, the most significant number in competition history.
Since 1939, FHP has patrolled Florida in traditional black and tan colors. The Troopers, Florida’s Finest, represent more than just a cruiser. They embody dedication to public safety, enforcement of the law, and a commitment to keeping citizens and visitors safe.
To learn more about FHP or how to become one of Florida’s Finest, visit BeATrooper.com.
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