07/02/2026
Throwback Thursday! 📸
Swipe through these two incredible vintage photos from the 1940s/1950s and meet a pair of Maryland State Troopers who took “reaching new heights” literally. The two Troopers in this photos are LT. Leonard N. Brown (near the top of the tower) and Tpr. Bill Earle (photo with automotive garage at base).
Back in the day, the tall radio towers at our barracks weren’t just landmarks — they were lifelines. Before cell phones, modern dispatch, or satellite comms, these masts kept troopers connected across the state so they could respond to calls in real time.
Whether these climbs were being done for fixing or tuning way up top, or just for old school competition; it took guts, grit, and a head for heights. No harnesses. No fancy gear. Just old-school courage and the “get it done” attitude that defined early MSP troopers.
This wasn’t a one-off stunt — it was part of the job. From the motorcycle patrols of the 1920s chasing bank robbers, to high-speed pursuits, search-and-rescue missions in tough terrain, and answering the call in any weather, Maryland State Troopers have always been the ones willing to do the dangerous, the difficult, and sometimes the downright daring to protect our communities.
These photos capture that fearless spirit perfectly.
Today, the Maryland State Police leverages state-of-the-art communications technology to keep troopers connected and responsive across the state. At the heart of this system is Maryland FiRST (First Responder Interoperable Radio System Team), a statewide radio network that provides interoperable voice and data communications for all first responders — enabling seamless coordination during large-scale incidents, medevac operations, and multi-agency responses.
If you’ve got a drive for thrills, a love of adventure, and the heart to serve with integrity, fairness, and excellence, the Maryland State Police wants people like you on the team.
Ready to climb to new heights — both literally and in your career?
Apply today to become a Maryland State Trooper:
https://mdsp.maryland.gov/careers
Would you have taken on that tower? Drop your thoughts below 👇
(Photos: Two 1940s/1950s black-and-white shots of troopers near the top of the old barrack radio tower — attach both here)
