One of our first stops was at the fire truck from the Hillsboro Fire Department. But since Alton has already toured these fire trucks and they were not letting people climb in them today, we quickly moved on.
Next up was an armored emergency vehicle from our local Hillsboro P.D.
We approached it rather shyly, but when the policemen said that Alton could climb inside and even sit in the driver's seat...you didn't have to tell him twice!
When he climbs into the driver's seats of vehicles, he likes to announce "I am the driver," or "I am going to be the driver," or (when he wants to adopt a European persona) "I am being the driver."
Next up was your basic squad car. He looks a little squeamish at the thought of cruisin' in this Crown Victoria.
But after a minute he settled right in, looking for buttons to push!
The officer sat inside with Alton to show him how the computer on the dash worked, and even let Alton turn all the rooftop lights on and off.
He even clambered up into the backseat to see what it's like for the perps.
I don't think the criminals get to pop their heads through that little window though, Alton.
Oooh, motorcycles! They also said that Alton could sit on these.
A quick photo op with Mommy and Daddy...
...and he was ready to zoom off! He compares choppers with the cop to his left. (Alton's is a BMW. 'Nuff said.) Hey Alton, didn't you forget a helmet?!
The remote-controlled vehicles from the Washington County Sheriff's Department were interesting for a looong time. This little RC car has been modified with a hard outer shell and video camera mounted in front. Alton called it the "ATV."
This larger robot is equipped with gripping claws that can operate in place of a human hand for dangerous work, and can even be changed out for a big 'ol gun. Wowza! The officer had the gripper grab a piece of paper and try to hand it to Alton, which scared him and made him cry. Oh, no!
Okay, on to the S.W.A.T. truck! This huge armored vehicle is nicknamed "The Bear." Andy and Alton check out the optional sun roof.
Then Alton gets cozy on one of the backseat benches.
Don't forget about the Oregon State Troopers! By this time, it was all old hat to Alton, who hopped into the driver's seat and even reached for the Trooper's cellphone! Hmm, better put that away.
Andy and Alton pose in the backseat of the state trooper's car; hopefully the ONLY time this ever happens!
A Life Flight crew from the Portland Metro area also made an appearance. We got to see the helicopter land...
and Mr. Alton was only too glad to inspect the inside for them!
Always the generous hosts, Genentech also provided lunch for their employees, family members, and all of the hardworking emergency and law enforcement officials present for the showcase. We don't care if the sun's not shining, we'll still eat barbecue and watermelon.
3 comments:
What a neat day! It looks sort of poorly-attended, unfortunately. I know this kind of experience sticks with a young person, fostering a positive attitude toward law enforcement, so how great for the Little Man. He looks very comfortable with the whole thing, not counting the robo-arm. Cooperative people, nice employer, free food, very nice.
You probably ought to start thinking about what to say when he wants a motorcycle in high school.
Love to you all.
Grandpa and Grammy
If AJ and I are going to be in the back of a police car, it better be together. Isn't there a line about a true friend will be in jail with you?? :)
Grandpa & Grammy - AJ and Katie arrived a few minutes before the vent officially started, so it was a little empty at the beginning. But it picked up great once all the Genentech employees realized there was an opportunity to get away from work.
It looks like Alton is making his way through another day where he gets to see in real life all the things he longingly looks at in books. It doesn't happen for everyone, but I'm glad he has a chance to see them up close.
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