Dressed for success

The California Highway Patrol is dressed to the nines and has been since the roaring 20s.

The agency was recognized Tuesday as the best-dressed state law enforcement agency in the nation by the North-American Association of Uniform Manufacturers and Distribution.

Under an independent panel of judges, including public safety officials, media representatives and educational institutes, the selection emphasized the importance of professional, neat, well-fitting and immediately identifiable uniforms in first responders, the CHP said.

"As CHP officers, we take pride in everything we do," said Williams Public Information Officer John Waggoner. "That not only includes our uniforms, but also our vehicles and our service."

CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow, who accepted the award at CHP headquarters in Sacramento, said the CHP's uniform is a symbol of service, which is a legacy the agency has been proud to continue since its inception in 1929.

"CHP Officers wearing a crisp uniform not only suggest confidence and professionalism, but more importantly, they advocate a commitment and dedication to service," Farrow said in a statement.

Made famous in the 1970s by the television series "CHiPs," the appearance of the CHP uniform has changed very little over the years, Waggoner said.

Today, more than 7,500 men and women wear the familiar tan uniform with blue and gold trouser stripe and a campaign hat while on patrol of the state's highways. Others wear uniforms for special assignments.

The dress uniform includes a green jacket with royal blue tie blue (bow tie for motor officers), Waggoner said.

Other CHP uniforms include the every-day long sleeve dress uniform and blue cold-weather uniform, which is used in mountain regions during the winter.

The CHP also has uniforms that distinguish its personnel as Special Weapons and Tactics offices, helicopter and airplane pilots, motorcycle and bicycle cops, horse-mounted officers and special duty canine officers, Waggoner said.

"Our uniforms are recognized all over the nation," Waggoner said. "The CHP tan uniform and the CHP shoulder patch differentiate themselves from other state and local law enforcement agencies."

"We instill a sense of pride in the uniform and its legacy of service as soon as cadets report to the CHP Academy," added Farrow. "By the end of the first week of cadet training, there is an expectation that cadets will be attired in a properly fitting, clean pressed uniform."

Waggoner said CHP officers understand the uniform represents a symbol of service to the public, and that the public recognize and expect the finest service from those who wear it.

Contact Susan Meeker at 458-2121 or smeeker@tcnpress.com.