Troopers and their K-9 partners visit Palmer Elementary

Trooper Jeff Kissock with K-9 “Ray” and Trooper Kevin Conners with K-9 “Schini” made a special visit to Palmer Elementary School Tuesday morning to talk with third grade students.

The students recently read “Aero and Officer Mike,” by Joan Plummer Russell. The nonfiction book explores the extraordinary relationship between Corporal Mike Matsik and his K-9 partner, Aero.

Trooper Conners told the students about “Schini,” a 6-year-old bloodhound who is named after fallen Trooper Craig Todeschini. Conners told the students about Schini’s amazing ability to find missing people and track “bad guys.”

Trooper Kissock talked about his partner, Ray, a 6-year-old Shepard. Ray is trained in finding bombs and taking down “bad guys.” The troopers demonstrated Ray’s abilities by having him bite a special sleeve worn by Trooper Conners.

The students were eager to ask questions about the dogs and were overjoyed to be able to pet the four-legged heroes.