READY ON THE RIGHT, READY ON THE LEFT, FIRE
Spring starts a busy time for the East Texas Police Academy. Les Ferguson, rangemaster for the academy said he has six classes going right now. Two classes are going on in Kilgore and academy personnel have to travel to conduct the other classes. At the range on Tuesday, Classes 257 and 258 were conducting drills for magazine exchanges. Ferguson stresses to cadets that speed is needed on the exchange, but accuracy must be maintained when firing. 38 men and women are going through firearms training this week. Other instructors art John Smith (Smitty) and Cindy Thurman. (photos left to right clockwise) Les Ferguson barks out commands on the firing line, safety is number one concern while handling weapons during training. Brent Hobbs, Texarkana Police cadet shoots a well used target. Nikki Williams-Limburg from Kilgore practices magazine exchange with her Glock. Nikki will be going to work for the Longview Police Department. Ear and eye protection in place, Smitty watches over the firing line. Cadet Maira Gonzalez drops her magazine during a speed drill to get faster in exchanging magazines.

News Herald Photos by Lester Murray