They say they are the first line of defense on the last frontier. The Alaska State Troopers handle everything from domestic disputes to drunken escapades. They are there to keep the public safe while still ensuring they enjoy all the benefits of the state.
The Arctic Man Challenge
The Arctic Man is an annual race in Alaska. It’s more than just a race. It’s a test of strength and endurance. It combines snowmobiling with downhill skiing. First the skier races down a mountain (elevation 5,800 feet with a drop of 1700 feet in less than two miles), and then the partner takes off in a snowmobile. To say this is a test of abilities is putting it lightly.
The crowds that gather for this ultimate challenge can often get a bit rowdy. Beer flows like waterfalls and the crowds get unruly. The Alaska State Troopers are there to make sure everyone is safe, and to arrest those who cause trouble.
The Arctic Man is filled with partiers for the four-day event. This is Alaska’s version of the Mardi Gras in New Orleans. There are plenty of parties, drinking, and merry making. But there is also a lot of misconduct. There are thirteen state troopers to keep the peace in the crowd of 10,000.
This is just one are in which these troopers find themselves. They cover a large area of land and help and protect the people of the state.
Reality shows are part of today’s television landscape and this new one is similar to other police reality shows. The big difference is the scenery. Alaska is a beautiful place and the cameras catch the landscape of the country along with the duties of the troopers.
The Alaska State Troopers Protect People and Wildlife
Not only do these troopers protect the people of Alaska, they are also there to protect the wildlife. In one scene a moose was killed when it shouldn’t have been. The troopers planned to return to the location at a later date to see if they could catch the person who trapped the animal.
Alaska is a rugged place filled with rugged people. Hunting is a way of life and that means guns are plentiful. This is one thing the troopers must keep in mind when they go out on calls. Whether they are responding to a domestic situation or a drunken woman who needs attention, these troopers must always keep in mind that the victims could be armed themselves, making their job even more dangerous.
Viewers go along with the troopers when they are on patrol and when they are training, which they continually do. The viewers see them respond to situations involving people and animals. And through it all they also see life in Alaska as well as some of the spectacular beauty of the state.
Alaska State Troopers premiers Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at 10 PM ET/PT on National Geographic Channel.
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