Washington Missouri Police Explorer Post 2438

09/13/2026

We’re a day late, but we still want to wish a very Happy National Police Women’s Day to our Lead Advisor, Cpl. Mindy Schmelz, and former Explorer Captain, P.O. Lauren Zweifel!

Both of these outstanding officers have played an important role in our Explorer program and are great examples of what it means to serve our community.

For the young women the exploring program who are considering a career in law enforcement, having strong female officers to look up to matters. Cpl. Schmelz and P.O. Zweifel show them that there is a place for them in this profession and that they can make a difference.

We’re proud to have them as part of the WPD family and even prouder of the example they continue to set for the next generation.

💙 WE’RE CELEBRATING FIVE WOMEN WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN WASHINGTON. 💙

Today, we celebrate the women of the Washington Police Department who answer the call every day.

Detective Becca Corbett
P.O. Katie Griggs
P.O. Kylie Galey
Cpl. Mindy Schmelz
P.O. Lauren Zweifel

Women make up less than 14% of commissioned local and state law enforcement officers. We’re proud to have these five exceptional women serving our community and helping pave the way for the future of law enforcement.

Thank you for your courage, dedication, and service. We are proud to have you serving Washington!

Happy National Police Women’s Day!

08/22/2026

One of our explorers helped Officer Hudson at a local elementary school’s back to school bash as Daren the DARE Lion!

07/25/2026

Last week some of our explorers attended the annual summer law enforcement Explorer academy, which was held at Missouri Baptist University.

The explorers competed in scenario based competitions, did a lot of PT, and learned a lot about the job of a police officer.

This is a week that I (Cpl Schmelz) look forward to every year because it gives our explorers an immersive experience and they are provided with the opportunity to make friends and connections with kids from other areas that they would probably never meet otherwise.

This year the academy hosted the normal posts from the St Louis area (St Louis City, St Louis County-2 posts (north and west county),Hazelwood, Bridgeton, O’fallon Mo, O’fallon IL, St Charles City, St Peters, Kirkwood, Florissant, Washington, and Wentzville).

We also hosted posts from Olate, KS and Lincoln, NE!

If you have a child that is aged 14-20 and has an interest in learning about law enforcement, please contact Cpl Schmelz or Ofc Hudson at [email protected] or zhudson@wash o.gov

We meet on Sundays at 630 at the pd. Our next meeting is tomorrow (8/26)

07/18/2026

07/18/2026

The St. Louis Area Law Enforcement Exploring Association is proud to recognize that the 2025 Explorer Academy was dedicated to the memory of Detective Antonio Valentine, honoring his extraordinary service, leadership, and lasting impact on law enforcement and our community.

As part of this year's Academy, our Level 4 Explorers had the privilege of touring the newly opened St. Louis County Police Detective Antonio Valentine Building. This visit provided an incredible opportunity for our Explorers to learn more about the investigative profession while reflecting on Detective Valentine's legacy of dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving others.

Detective Valentine's story continues to inspire future generations of law enforcement professionals. To learn more about his life, legacy, and the Officer Down Memorial Page dedicated to him, please visit: [https://www.odmp.org/officer/27462-detective-antonio-valentine]

Thank you to the St. Louis County Police Department for welcoming our Explorers and for ensuring Detective Valentine's legacy continues to inspire those who choose a life of service.

07/18/2026

Day 3 of Explorer Academy is officially underway! 🎉

By now we've learned that teamwork isn't just a buzzword—it's figuring out who's got the map, who's carrying the snacks, and who's confidently leading us in the wrong direction. Today, that’s Explorer Frost! 😂

Every challenge gets a little easier (and a lot more fun) when we work together. Looking forward to another day of learning, laughing, solving problems, and proving that the best adventures happen as a team.

Let's make Day 3 the best one yet! 💪🧭