Walking the Blue Line.
Every rookie police officer knows the dangers of the job by the second week under their training officer. By the end of their training every rookie understands that there are something they can’t control, and not all crimes will be solved. Though all rookies share the same dream. Their first assignment following training. For 21 year old Officer Joe Cartwright of the Baltimore PD that dream is to be a member of the Mounted Patrol. What he got would lead to a life changing path.

Chapter 8
The Rookies.
Mounted Division Stables. 0800: 3 days later.

Josie looked at the seven rooky officers gathered in front of the coral. When she suggested that she could help train the new officers. She wasn’t expecting to get a class full of rookies who knew nothing about horses. “Okay boots, listen up. I’m not here to teach you procedure. My job is to train you how to fucking ride and take care of your partner. That is what your mounts are partners. They are more than just horses, they are police officers. Just like you, only they’re smarter.”

When a few of them chuckled at her comment Josie snarled. “Which one of you slugs laughed?!” When no one stepped forward Josie snarled. “Seeing as how no one wants to take credit for being the dumbasses. You can all drop and give me twenty.”

When they looked at Josie like she was crazy Josie snapped. “THAT WASN’T A FUCKING SUGGESTION ROOKIES! START PUSHING OR TAKE YOUR ASSES BACK TO THE STATION! I DON’T HAVE TIME FOR BULLSHIT! DO YOU FUCKING UNDERSTAND?”

As one the seven rookies all assumed the front leaning rest position and began knocking out pushups. One young man shouted out a cadence. “One! Two! Three! One! One! Two! Three! Two!” Josie just smiled as she could tell the young man was former military. When the rookies had completed their twenty four-count pushups the young man called out for the gathered rookies. “Permission to recover Instructor?!”

“Recover!” Josie called out. When the rookies were standing Josie returned to her welcoming lecture. “As I stated your mounts are not horses they are your partner and fellow officers. Before you laugh you need to understand something. If your horse is injured while on patrol, you better bring the son of bitch in for assault on a police officer. If you don’t, you get to deal with the Captain, the LT, and both shift Sergeants. After they have chewed you out your asses are mine.”

“Officer Cartwright you have a phone call in the stable office. It’s Captain Mathews.” One of the stable hands called out interrupting her.

“When I get back I’ll introduce you to your partners.” Josie told the rookies and went to answer the phone. Picking up the phone Josie said. “Cartwright here.”

“Josie do you have a rookie by the name Bill Jackson?” Mathews asked her bluntly.

“No sir. Am I supposed to?” Josie asked him.

“Damn. How many officers do you have?” Mathews asked next.

“Seven.” She answered then asked. “How many am I supposed to have for this class?”

“You’re supposed to have a total of ten rookies for basic horsemanship.” Mathews told her.

“What do you want me to do sir?” Josie asked him. “I can hold off assigning them their mounts.”

“No go ahead and start assigning them their partners. I’ll hunt down your missing trainees.” Mathews told her and hung up the phone.

“Nothing like starting off the week on a high note.” Josie sighed and hung up the receiver. Heading back outside Josie wondered where the three missing rookies were. “Okay ladies and gentlemen can any of you tell me where the rest of my trainees are?”

“Ma’am, we were all kind of wondering that ourselves. We all left the station together.” One of the men told her.

“Did they have directions for the stables boot?” Josie asked him sharply.

“We were all given the same directions ma’am. Though Jackson, Cornell, and Wheeler took the same car to save on gas.” One of the women said.

“Whose car did they take?” Josie asked her.

“They took Cornell’s car ma’am.” The woman answered.

“Then it’s a good bet they got lost.” Josie sighed then looked at the gathered rookies. “Okay people while we’re waiting for your friends to show up. Let’s get you introduced to your partners. If you’ll follow me.”

Josie smiled as she led the seven rookies inside the stable. She smiled as the four men headed for the two Percherons, and two Clydesdales. Meanwhile the three women head for the three American Saddlebreds. While the rookies were walking between the unassigned horses Josie headed for her new partner. Josie walked up to Wave Dancer’s stall smiling. “Hi big guy.”

“He’s a beautiful Walker ma’am.” One of the women said as she neared Dancer’s stall.

“Wave Dancer is a Morgan, Officer Reed.” Josie said after reading her name tag.

“Sorry about that ma’am. Isn’t he a little big for a Morgan?” Reed asked her.

“Not really. Waver Dancer is only sixteen hands two. Unlike Sandy over there.” Josie said as she pointed towards the champagne colored Tennessee Walker mare Reed had been looking at.

“Is Waver Dancer taken?” Reed asked Josie patted the big Morgan on the snout.

“He’s my partner. If you’re looking for a Morgan we have one open. She is over in the other stable. Do you want to see her?” Josie asked Reed.

“No ma’am. I think I’ll stick with Sandy. I’ve always had better luck with Walkers when I went riding as a kid.” Reed confessed.

“How much riding experience do you have Reed?” Josie asked the woman.

“Not much ma’am. Most of my experience is with trail horses. My parents would take me and my brother on these horseback camping vacations in Kentucky, West Vergina, Tennessee, and Vergina every summer.” Reed told her honestly.

“Well you at least you have some experience. Unlike the rest of your classmates.” Josie told her then asked. “Tell me something Reed. How many of you volunteered for Mounted Patrol?”

“Only me, Lindall, and Hershall volunteered.” Reed told her as she pointed out the other two women. “Ma’am I’ll be honest. None of the guys wanted the assignment.”

“Why not?” Josie asked her. Already worried about the horses.

“Well most of them thought Mounted Patrol meant motorcycles or bicycles. They believe that the Horse Mounted unit is nothing more than a ceremonial and public relations unit. They wanted to be assigned to a real police unit division.” Reed told Josie honestly.

“Oh really?!” Josie snarled and spun on her hell. Putting two fingers in her mouth Josie let out a piercing whistle. Once she had their attention Josie stepped into the center of the stable. “Alright listen up you assclowns. If you think the horse mounted patrol is nothing more than a public relations unit raise your hand.”

When the four men raised their hands Josie chuckled. “So you think we’re not real cops. Well let me give you the fucking facts of life. On any day of the week a mounted officer well answer between fifteen to twenty calls. We are also employed in crowd control because of our mobile mass and height advantage. Also we’re increasingly used for crime prevention and high visibility policing roles. The added height and visibility that the horses give our riders allows officers to observe a wider area, and it also allows people in the wider area to see the officers, which helps deter crime and helps people find officers when they need them. When we’re employed for crowd control, there is a risk that some people may be trampled. You clowns need to understand that any officer riding the horse may be held legally responsible for injuries depending upon the totality of the circumstances. So if you think your only duties well be looking pretty for pictures, riding in parades, and giving directions to lost tourists you’re sadly mistaken.”

“What kind of calls will we be answering on horseback?” One of the men asked snidely.

“Let me think on that one. Oh I know. How about armed robbery at an ABC store? Maybe a mugging in the park? Better yet how about a possible bomb threat? Oh wait my personal favorite a body dump near one of the park lakes. If you’re wondering since I’ve been part of the Mount Patrol I have responded to most of those situations.” Joise told him.

“Excuse me ma’am but why would a horse mounted officer responded to those types of calls?” Another man asked her.

“Because I was the closest officer to the scene. Understand something boots. We are responsible for all calls that are within two blocks of our assigned patrol areas. Then there are the times when we’re better suited to respond to a situation. Like crimes committed in the parks. Then there are the calls we handle during a snowstorm. During last month’s blizzard Officers Hickman and Jones responded to a holdup at Steerman Liquors. Captain Mathews and Sergeant Gardy responded to pregnant woman in distress during that same storm. They ended up delivering her baby in the woman’s bedroom. Those are just a few examples.” Josie told them then bluntly asked. “Do you really think the brass would treat such calls to a publicity unit?”

“No ma’am.” The four men mumbled honestly. Josie noticed that the three women just grinned. For some reason Josie had the feeling that the women didn’t share the feelings of the men.

“Any more questions?” Josie asked them. When no one spoke up, Josie let her gaze sweep over the group, her expression challenging but not unkind.

“Good,” she said, her tone firm. “Let’s get one thing clear every officer here will be expected to step up, regardless of your assignment preferences. Mounted Patrol isn’t about looking good for the public; it’s about being ready for anything, no matter what the weather, the terrain, or the situation. If you’re willing to put in the work and trust your partners, horse and human alike, you’ll find this unit demands just as much grit and professionalism as any other on the force.” She paused, letting her words sink in, and then gestured toward the tack room. “Now saddle up. We’ve got patrol procedures to learn and horses who need riders with backbone.”

For the next half hour Josie instructed the rookies in how to bridle and saddle their mounts. She was surprised that the seven trainees showed more attention to her lesson than they originally had to her. She could tell that her impromptu lesson on the duties of the Mount division had a major impact on their attitudes. When it came time for their first actual riding lesson Josie treated them like she would have anyone just learning to ride. She was surprised that the horses the trainees choose for themselves were almost perfect matches temperament wise.

They were halfway through the lesson when Josie received a call from Personal. It seems that the three missing rookie officers had showed up there requesting reassignment to a regular patrol unit. When they finally showed up at the stables Josie took one look at the three of them and decided on a slightly different approach than she had used with the others. She went full on bitch. “Where the fuck have you three shit heads been? Do any of you own a watch? You were supposed to be here at zero eight hundred. It is now zero nine fifty. That means you’re two hours late.”

“Sorry ma’am we got lost.” Jackson told her.

“So ending up over at Personnel was just you trying to find directions?” Josie asked snidely before unleashing her anger. “Listen up assclowns. I don’t give a shit about your feelings. Until you’re reassigned your asses belong to me. You are officers of the Baltimore Police Department. Though that is subject to change. For the next year you can be fired for any legitimate reason. Poor performance is the number one reason rookies are washed out.”

Josie gave them a hard look, making it clear she wasn’t buying their excuse, but decided to move on. “Lost or not, you’re here now, so listen up. The expectations for the next two weeks are simple, show up on time, learn fast, and prove you belong. The Mounted Patrol might seem different from standard units, but the responsibility is just as real, and the margin for error just as slim. If you want to stay, you’ll earn it every day by showing discipline, respect, and the kind of teamwork this job demands. You get one chance to prove you can handle it, don’t waste it.”

Without waiting for further excuses, Josie pointed toward the horses, her tone making it clear that they needed to catch up quickly or risk falling even further behind. “There are three Walkers just inside in need of riders. Find your partner, get them saddle, and get your asses back out here. If you have any questions in how to carry out my instructions. Ask them now.”

“Yes, ma’am. How do you saddle a horse?” Wheeler asked her then explained. “I’ve never ridden a horse ma’am. I don’t know the first thing about horses.”

“What about you two? Any experience with horses?” Josie asked Jackson and Cornell. Both men shook their heads no. Josie sighed. “Is that why you tried to transfer out? None of you know how ride in the first place.”

“Yes ma’am.” All three answered honestly.

“Did it ever occur to you chuckle heads that the department would give you the training you need?” Josie asked them bluntly. When they shook their heads no Josie wanted to scream. “What were you told about this morning and the next two weeks?”

“Just to report here to the stables ma’am and meet with our training officer, ma’am.” Cornell said.

“Oh for the love little green men.” Josie moaned and shook her head. “Follow me.”

Josie headed over to the corral and practice ring. When the seven rookies saw her with their missing classmates they all directed their horses over to the corral fence. Once they stopped just a few feet from the fence Josie asked. “When you were told to report here. Exactly what were you told by your academy Instructors?”

“To report to the Police Stables at zero eight hundred to meet our training officer, ma’am.” Reed told her honestly.

“Is that all you were told?” Josie asked with a heavy sigh.

“Yes ma’am.” They all said at the same time.

“Did they at least ask if you knew how to ride?” Josie almost begged.

“No ma’am. Though one told me that I would be trained in how to care for and ride a horse.” One of the women told her.

“Did that Instructor share this information with the others, Officer O’neel?” Josie asked her.

“I don’t know ma’am.” O’neel answered. When Josie looked at the rest of the trainees they were all shaking their heads no.

“That explains a lot.” Josie sighed and turned to the three late arrivals. “You three get a pass for today. Though you need to understand something. If you’re late again, I’ll write your asses up so fast that your heads will still be spinning come springtime. Am I understood?”

“Yes ma’am.” The three men shouted.

“Good. You three head for the stables and find your partners. The rest of you continue with what you were doing.” Josie told the others as she turned to head inside. “I need to make a phone call.”

While her trainees were either picking out their mounts or riding circles in the practice ring. Josie used the stable office phone to call Captain Mathews. “Sir we might have a problem.”

“What’s going on Cartwright?” Mathews asked.

“Sir I don’t know what you told the academy, but only one of our rookies has any experience with riding.” Josie told him with a sigh before continuing. “And sir that rookie’s experience is with trail horses at some resort.”

“You’ve got to be shitting me.” Mathews groaned.

“I wish that I were sir.” Josie told him honestly.

“What does this do for your original training schedule?” Mathews asked her.

“I can give them the basics in the two weeks allowed for but if I’m supposed to go over patrol procedures with them. I’ll need another two weeks.” Josie told him honestly.

“Let their TO’s worry about going over procedures Cartwright. You worry about teaching them how to ride.” Mathews told her bluntly.

“Yes sir. You should also know that’s not the only problem.” Josie told him.

“If you’re going to bring up the fact that only the women volunteered don’t bother. I already received a call from Personnel. Don’t worry there won’t be any transfers unless they can’t cut the training. Cartwright for the next two weeks you can bounce their asses just like every other TO. Only they won’t be sent to regular patrol. They’ll be out the door.” Mathews told her.

“Understood sir. They either make here or they’re gone. Is that the situation?” Josie said knowing that the ten rookies were most likely the bottom of the barrel.

“Pretty much Cartwright. I know you don’t want to hear this, but the number of people who know how to ride a horse isn’t what it used to be.” Mathews told her bluntly.

“I know that sir, but you’d think Personnel would ask if they know how.” Josie told him.

“Don’t worry Cartwright I’m already working on that.” Mathews told her.

“If I can make a suggestion sir. Start with correcting the perception of our unit at the academy. Whoever is giving the presentation is painting the unit strictly as a ceremonial unit. That’s part of the reason why Jackson, Cornell, and Wheeler stopped at Personnel before reporting to the stables. The other part was they don’t know how to ride.” Josie said.

“Do the others have the same attitude?” Mathews asked her.

“Pretty much sir. Don’t worry sir. I’ve already corrected that misconception. At least I think so.” Josie told him honestly.

“Good if not let me know as soon as possible. I’ll have Sergeant Gardy correct their attitudes.”

“Thank sir, but I think I need to handle the problem myself. If I don’t I’ll never gain their respect.” Josie told him as she looked out the office door at the three men. “Sir I need to get going.”

“Take care of you trainees Cartwright. Remember you wouldn’t have this assignment if I didn’t think you could get the job done.” Mathews told before hanging up. Josie just sighed and hung up her receiver before stepping out of the office.

“Have you three decided on your partners yet?” Josie asked Jackson, Cornell, and Wheeler.

“Yes ma’am.” They all answered as one before Wheeler asked. “Where do we fine their saddles?”

“Over in the tack room, Wheeler. If you’ll give me a minute. I’ll show you how to saddle your horses and fit them with a bit and bridle.” Josie told them as she led them over to the tack room. Josie was only slightly surprised that the three men choose from the Quarter horses. Though she could understand their reasoning. The Quarter horses were better suited for novice riders with their generally good temperaments and docile dispositions. Though Josie believe the men had chosen the horses for another reason. Other than the Percherons and Clydesdales, the Quarter horses they picked were the biggest each standing a good sixteen hands tall.

After giving them a quick class on how to saddle the horses and fit them with their bridles. Josie saddled Wave Dancer and showed the men how to mount their partners. After dismounting Josie led the men out to the practice corral where she remounted Wave Dancer. The three men quickly followed her example. With everyone now mounted Josie began to teach her trainees how to ride. She started them off at an easy walk. Josie soon had them moving at easy going working trot and finally into a working canter. When lunch time rolled around Josie led her trainees out of the coral and across the road to the Wendy’s for burgers and fries.

“Ma’am, I know this is going to sound stupid, but why are we going through the drive through?” Reed asked her as they lined up to place their orders.

“Simple. First is to get you and your mount used to the idea. Before you ask you’ll find that most drive throughs around our patrol areas are used to seeing us. Also most fast food joints around our patrol areas have an outdoor seating area. Which you will use. One of our standing procedures is never leave your mount unattended.” Josie explained for Reed and the others.

“Um ma’am, do we have to remain mounted while we eat?” One of the other women asked.

“No. You just need to be near your mount during your lunch break.” Josie explained.

“Ma’am I know this is going to sound stupid, but what is the reason for staying near our mounts?” Wheeler asked her as they waited to place their orders.

“Believe it or not, Wheeler. People have actually tried to steal police horses in the past. In a few cases they have pulled it off. Now most of the time these thefts have been a practical joke or done on a drunken dare, and the horse was returned within a few hours. On the other hand the theft of a police horse is grand theft of police equipment. Your Quarter horse is worth several thousands of dollars. The cheapest horse here is Reed’s Tennessee Walker.” Josie told him.

“Holy shit. I thought those stories of people stealing a police horses were tall tales.” Jackson said.

“Trust me, Jackson. They’re not. Last year a Mounted Officer in DC left his mount unattended while he stopped for dinner. His sub sandwich cost DCPD two hundred and fifty thousand dollars all total.” Josie told the rookie with a smile.

“No offence ma’am, but how the hell did a horse cost that much?” Reed asked her.

“First there was the thirteen thousand dollars for the horse, which had to be put down because of injuries. Then there was the thirty thousand dollars for the investigation into the theft and finally the two hundred thousand dollars for the prosecution of the suspect. By the way that was a hell of a lot cheaper than what the county paid when one of the High Patrol’s cruisers was stolen. That little fiasco cost Baltimore County just short of three/quarters of a million dollars.” Josie told her as she nudged Wave Dancer up to place her order.

After placing her order Josie moved out of the way. The rookies were slightly surprised by how calm the casher was at seeing them on horseback. When it came time to collect their meals Josie dismounted at the window. The rookies quickly followed her example. With food in hand Josie led them around to the picknick area. After tying Wave Dancer to the rail she choose a table to eat. Once again the rookies followed her example.

“Excuse me ma’am, but are there other places to eat around here?” One of the women asked.

“Sadly no place close. Our choices are Wendy’s or brown bag. If you brown bag your lunch there’s a breakroom at the back of the stables. I can understand why you’re asking. I normally pack my lunch when I’m working at the stable.” Josie told them.

“What kind of work do we have at the stable ma’am?” Cornell asked.

“The usual farm chores, Cornell. Though if you follow the old Calvery standard of horse, saddle, then man. You won’t have to spend your days off in the stables.” Josie told him honestly.

“Horse, saddle, then man. What does that mean?” Jackson asked her.

“Take care of your horse first. Then your equipment. Finally you see to yourself. It may sound backwards but your horses can’t see to their needs. They need their stalls mucked out then they need fresh straw put down, hay and oats in their fed bends, and fresh water in their troughs. Remember if your mount gets sick you don’t have a ride.” Josie instructed them.

“Well part of our training be in how to care for our horses ma’am?” Jackson asked her.

“Yes and I expect you to pay as much attention to those lessons than to your riding lessons.” Josie told him bluntly. “Something you all need to remember when out on patrol. Never let civilians feed your partner anything. Not even as a treat.”

“Why’s that ma’am?” Reed asked her.

“Because you don’t know what is in it or where it came from. Our horses are fed a balanced diet of high-quality hay, alfalfa, oats, grains, vitamins, and minerals. You giving them a special treat is one thing. Civilians giving them a treat is another matter.” Josie told them.

“What kinds of treats do you recommend ma’am?” One of the men asked out of the blue.

“Carrots, apples, nuts, are preferable. For a something special you can give them a sugar cube or hard candy. Just don’t give them those too often. They’ll come to expect their treats when they see you.” Josie warned the rookies then turned her attention to her meal. “Eat up people. We need to get back to your training.”

Thirty minutes later the rookies remounted their horses and followed Josie back to the corral. Once there Josie moved to the center of the ring while the rookies rode circles around her. After three more hours in the saddle Josie called a halt for the day. “Okay people dismount and take your partners back to their stalls. We’ll continue your training at their stalls.”

Josie wanted to laugh as the ten rookies moaned when they dismounted. She could tell that they would all be feeling the saddle when they got home tonight. For a few minutes Josie actually thought about letting them suffer. Then she remembered her own aches when she started riding again and showed pity on them. “Before you put your partners to bed. You need to rub them down and give them a good brushing. You’ll also need to clean out their stalls.”

The moans of pain that came from the rookies at this announcement also caused Josie to chuckle. She smiled as the three women were the first to lead their mounts over to their stalls and tied them off. The men quickly followed their examples. Soon all eleven horses were being brushed down. Josie took her time with each new rider and horse. Giving them tips on how to treat and care for their horses. By the time the rookies were ready to put their mounts to bed the ten rookies were dragging their feet. Josie could tell that all of them were city breed and unuse to farm work.

At just after six pm Josie released the rookies for the evening. As they were splitting up Josie handed a printout to each rookie and gave them some free advice. “If you weren’t told. This is a list of uniform requirements that you’ll need for mounted patrol. The best place you can fill this list is Gentery Saddlery. Though you still have to go through Harm and More Uniforms for your jackets, shirts, and pants. When you head into Gentery Saddlery be sure to show your credentials.”

“Any advice on how to deal with swore muscles?” Jackson asked as he rubbed his thighs.

“Stop at the nearest Walgreens and pick up some Blue Wisk or Purple Yam cream. Stay away from the Icy Hot and Bengay. Any cream with menthol really.” Josie told him.

“Are you sure about that ma’am?” Cornell asked her.

“Let’s just say that I learned the hard way when I was kid and leave it at that Cornell.” Josie grinned as she rubbed her backside causing everyone to chuckle. “Before I forget before you go rubbing down with cream take a long hot shower or bath. It’ll keep your muscles from tightening up on you as you sleep.”

“Yes ma’am.” They all said as one.

“I’ll see you all at roll call.” With that Josie left the rookies. As she neared her truck Josie was surprised to Kelly standing next to a brand new Dodge Hornet. “Yeah Kelly how’s it going?”

“Not bad Josie. I heard you were the one to bring in our new mounts.” Kelly told her.

“Only part of them. Who did you finally end up picking?” Josie asked her.

“Lollypop.” Kelly told her then explained which horse at Josie’s confused look. “Buckskin American Saddle mare. She’s a real sweetheart.”

“Good to hear you found a decent partner.” Josie said with a smile. “Have they teamed you up with a rookie yet?”

“Not yet, Sergeant Stone told me that my new rookie is undergoing basic horsemanship right now. So I won’t get them for another two weeks.” Kelly told her.

“Who’s you’re rookie?” I asked her.

“Some boot named Jackson.” Kelly told her with a smile.

“Oh boy, you’ll have your hands full with him Kelly. He’s already had a run at Personnel to get transferred to another patrol unit.” Josie told her bluntly.

“Let me guess. Mount Patrol is nothing more than a ceremonial unit right?” Kelly groaned.

“Pretty much dead on. I gave him and the rest of the rookies an ass chewing concerning that misconception. I know that I got through to most of them, but Jackson, Cornell, and Wheeler might take a little longer.” Josie told her with a grin.

“Don’t worry about changing their attitudes Josie. That’s not your job. Your job is to train them to ride. If they can’t cut it, give them a blue page. If that doesn’t change their attitude after two bounce their asses. Let someone else deal with them. I know it sounds harsh, but people’s lives are in the line out there. Not just cops but civilians and suspects as well.” Kelly told her.

“Thanks Kelly. I just hate failing at something. It’s bad enough that I’m having to start with the basics with these rookies. I don’t know if two weeks is going to be long enough.” Josie said.

“Then talk with the Captain. Get more time.” Kelly told her.

“Already did that. Mathews shoot the idea of more time down. You and the other Train Officers get to teach them procedures.” Josie told her.

“Then what’s the problem?” Kelly asked her with small smile of understanding.

“The idea of giving you half trained officers Kelly. It just doesn’t sit right with me. You guys deserve better than that.” Josie told her honestly.

“Josie I hate to tell you this, but that is exactly what we get with every boot straight out of the academy. Look would you say that you knew the job when you first graduated?” Kelly asked her.

“Hell no. I was green as new grass. I learned that my first day on the streets.” Josie chuckled.

“It’s the same with these rookies. What you’re doing is continuing their academy training. Teach them what they need to know to ride and care for their partner. Leave the rest of their training to their TO.” Kelly told her with the confidence of a long time Training Officer. Kelly could tell that the idea wasn’t setting well with Josie.

“Look Josie before I ever made detective spent seven years on patrol. Four of which were as a Training Officer. I had five rookies during those four years. I washed out two of them. One because he froze up during a firefight, the other one for piss poor performance reviews. Every Training Officer goes through this when they first start out. What you need to understand is that you can only give a rookie the tools. They either fail or succeed on their own. There is nothing you can do to change that.” Kelly told her.

“Okay Kelly I hear you.” Josie chuckled as she realized what had been bugging her all day.

Kelly gave Josie a supportive pat on the shoulder, her expression softening. “Just remember, you’re not alone in this. We’ve all been there, questioning if we’re doing enough. The important thing is you care, and that’s what makes you a good trainer. Trust the process and trust yourself.”

Josie nodded, feeling the weight in her chest lighten a bit. She looked out across the training yard, watching the rookies as they headed for their cars, and for the first time that day, she felt a flicker of hope for the group. Maybe they weren’t perfect yet, but with time and the right guidance, some of them just might make it.

“Thanks for the advice Kelly. So other than checking out the rookies. What brings you down here before your shift?” Josie asked her.

“I was actually looking for you. Do you still have an opening in your building?” Kelly asked her.

“Just a studio apartment. Why?” Josie asked her.

“I was hoping that one of your two bedrooms was open.” Kelly told her honestly.

“You looking for a new place?” Josie asked her.

“Yup. My kid brother is coming home at the end of the month. His hitch in the Navy is up.” Kelly explained for Josie with a smile.

“How long did he serve?” Josie asked with a grin.

“He did five years as an ATC radar operator abroad an aircraft carrier. He’s already got a job lined up with BWI.” Kelly said with real pride.

“Does he have family?” Josie asked her.

“Nope. He came close a few times, but none of them panned out.” Kelly told her before pointing towards the rookie headed their way. “Looks like you got a boot in trouble.”

“What can I do for you Jackson?” Josie asked him with a frown.

“Yes ma’am. I’m hoping you can explain to me why we still have a Mounted patrol when cars are so much cheaper.” Jackson told her honestly.

“Okay I see where you’re going with this Jackson. Here’s a breakdown of the finances. The city pays around one hundred thousand dollars just to purchase each vehicle. That figure doesn’t even include ongoing maintenance or fuel expenses. When you add those costs in, the total rises to roughly one hundred to two hundred thousand dollars per year over a five-year span. For average of six hundred thousand dollars per car over their life span. And if you’re thinking these cars last longer than five years, that’s not usually the case. We’re fortunate if one stays in service for that long, especially considering our cruisers are on the road sixteen out of every twenty-four hours. They accumulate significant mileage too the average cruiser drives between seventy-five and ninety miles per day, all of which is in stop-and-go city traffic. Now here is another hash fact concerning our cruisers. By Federal law they have to be changed out every five years or when they reach one hundred and fifty thousand miles. Just to keep up with Federal safety standards.” Kelly told him before looking over at nodding Josie.

Josie smiled and picked up where Kelly left off. “Now, let’s look at the costs for horses. Buying one of our horses costs about ten to fifteen thousand dollars. Each year, stabling runs around five thousand dollars, with another thousand for feed and an additional thousand for waste removal, totaling seven thousand dollars annually per horse. Interestingly, the waste can be sold as natural fertilizer for gardens and farms. Veterinary bills add another thousand each year. With forty horses in the herd, that’s two hundred and forty thousand dollars every year. The average life span for a horse before retirement is seven years. After retirement many of them go on to live the quiet life as school or starter horses for young kids. When you add everything up the operational costs of our forty horse herd is the same as one police cruiser.”

“Josie you’re forgetting one of the most important facts. Our horses can cover ground that our cruisers, motorcycles, and bicycles can’t. Manly the parks, walking and running paths, plus the boardwalks. When you add up the costs the horses are cheaper and more efficient.” Kelly said.

“But you don’t have to worry about a car when it’s not in operation. Horses have to be fed, watered, and have their stalls cleaned out daily. That has to add to the cost of keeping them.” Jackson countered with feeling knowing he was on solid ground.

“Jackson do you know how much an oil change cost the city for one cruiser?” Kelly asked him.

“Forty to fifty dollars detective. Why?” Jackson asked in bewilderment.

“Try seventy-five dollars each time. Which has to be done every five thousand miles or the warranty is void. That includes the removal of the waste oil. Then there is the cost of tires. That’s five hundred dollars every year per car. Tune ups run about a hundred and fifty per car. All of that work has to be done by certified mechanics, at thirty-seven dollars an hour for labor. Oh and that’s not union wages. Union wages are an easy fifty dollars an hour for labor.” Kelly told him and chuckled at Jackson’s look of shock. Even Josie couldn’t help from laughing.

“We actually cost the city less to operate than any other unit in the force except for the bike patrol. Even then they can’t cover as much ground as we can. Nor can they operate year round like us. The first sign of bad weather and they’re pulled off the streets. Horses can operate in snow, rain, sleet, or sun. We can also work the streets when our patrol cruisers are restricted. Sometimes we’re the only police presence out there.” Josie explained kindly for the rookie.

“Damn, I guess I hadn’t thought it all the way through.” Jackson admitted.

“Forget about it Jackson. You’re like every other rookie that comes to the Mounted Patrol. We do a lot more than just crowd control and ceremonial duties.” Kelly told him kindly.

“Do you have any more questions Jackson?” Josie asked.

“Yes ma’am, just one more. Why do we have to mount our partners from the left?” Jackson asked.

“Oh boy. You just asked a whooper. You see mounting a horse on the left side is a tradition rooted in historical, practical, and anatomical reasons. The Historical significance goes back to Chivalry and Warfare. The practice of mounting from the left dates back to the days of knights and soldiers who carried swords on their left side. This arrangement allowed them to draw their swords with their right hand while mounting from the left, making it more convenient during battles. The Cultural tradition is a bit hard to explain. You see over time, this practice became standardized in equestrian culture. As horses were primarily used for riding and warfare, the left-side mounting tradition was passed down through generations.” Josie explained slowly for him.

“What about practical reasons?” Jackson asked.

“That comes down to convenience and training. You see most riders are right-handed, and mounting from the left allows them to use their dominant hand to control the reins while holding the horse’s equipment with their left hand. This makes the mounting process smoother and more efficient. As for training horses are often trained to expect riders to mount from the left side. This consistency helps them remain calm and reduces the risk of spooking when approached from the left.” Josie could tell that Jackson was listening to her every word.

“As for anatomical reasons. It comes down to behavior and safety. Horses have a stronger association with the left side due to their unique physiological and neurological composition. This means they may respond better to being approached and mounted from the left. As for safety. Consistently mounting from the left reduces the risk of accidents and unexpected reactions from the horse. It also helps maintain balance and comfort for the horse, as mounting from one side repeatedly can lead to physical strain.” Josie explained kindly.

“Thank you ma’am. you’ve given me a lot to think about.” Jackson told her and walked away.

“Do you think you got through to him?” Kelly asked.

Josie nodded thoughtfully. “I hope so. It’s important for rookies to understand not just the ‘how,’ but also the ‘why’ behind our traditions. It builds respect for both the horse and the role we serve.”

Kelly smiled, appreciating Josie’s patience and depth of knowledge. The barn was quiet for a moment as both considered the impact of their guidance on the newest member of their team. “I knew you were the right person for this job.”

“What do you mean Kelly?” Josie asked in confusion. Josie glanced toward the tack room, remembering her own early days learning these lessons. She knew how overwhelming it could be for newcomers, especially when old traditions seemed arbitrary. But she also believed that understanding the reasoning behind each rule fostered a deeper connection between rider and horse and ultimately made everyone safer.

“Simple. You know the reasons behind everything we do and their importance. You also know how to explain those reasons in words that anyone could understand.” Kelly told her as she chuckled. “The joker who trained me never gave me an explanation just that was how things were done and I was to do as I was told.”

“The why is just as important as the how. I learned that in Basic Training. I’m just glad he didn’t ask why we didn’t carry long guns.” Josie said with a chuckle.

“He should’ve figured that one out on his own. You can’t secure a long gun to a horse, bicycle, or motorcycle. Sure we could use rifle scabbards but with a simple knife and an unguarded moment some smuck has a police issue shotgun or M-four. Not a good thing.” Kelly giggled.

“GOD the paperwork alone would be a nightmare. I don’t even want to think about the IA investigation. I still remember that investigation into the stolen cruiser last year. I thought the rat squad would never stopping questioning me. Hell I wasn’t the one driving and they still climbed up my ass with a telescope.” Josie grumbled.

“At least they cleared you and Noland. What was their final ruling anyway?” Kelly asked her.

“We were cleared of any wrongdoing. The suspect had a long record for auto theft. He was a professional car thief. The shithead popped our door locks and bypassed the ignition in under thirty seconds. The only reason he stole our shop was for bragging rights.” Josie chuckled.

“How many years did he get?” Kelly asked with a grin.

“Three to five out in twenty-six with good behavior. He works in the county motorpol as a light wheel mechanic. Believe it or not he learned his skills in the Army.” Josie chuckled.

“Man talk about put your military training to good and bad use.” Kelly chuckled.

“It happens more often than not Kelly. A lot of Vets get out and find they don’t have skills that translate directly to the civilian workplace. I know that I had a hard time and I was a trained police officer. I still had to go through the academy. If it hadn’t been for a family friend and my aunt’s horse farm I might have gone another route.” Josie confessed.

“Is that why you spent your mandatory medical leave at your aunt’s farm?” Kelly asked politely.

“Yeah. Ever since I was a kid I always found a certain peace of mind on the back of a horse. When I came home from Afghanistan the last time I headed for my aunt’s farm. I spent ten days just riding around her farm and sleeping under the stars. When I got back to base I volunteer for the Ceremonial Cavalry Guard. Did my last four months with them. I got to admit that those four months were my best time the army.” Josie confessed.

“Well I would love to stand here and bullshit, but I got to get ready for rollcall and patrol. You take it easy Josie. Can’t wait for you to get these rookies trained to ride.” Kelly told her as she climbed into her car.

“Be safe Kelly.” Josie said as she turned back to her truck. As she climbed behind the wheel Josie wondered what the morning would bring. As she drove through town to her apartment she went over the lessons for the day. “I hope Jackson and his buddies learn something today. If not I’ll have no choice than to right them up.”

On her way home Josie stopped at a Quickie Mart and picked up a twelve pack of beer before heading home. As she pulled into her parking spot Josie noticed Mike’s and Neal’s car was missing. “The guys must be out for the night. Oh well. Guess I’m drinking alone.”

As she rode the elevator to her floor she was surprised when it stopped on the fifth floor. Her surprise grew when two couples got on and pushed the button for her floor. At first Josie was going to ask them where the couples were headed until she overheard one of the women comment about enjoying Mike’s cooking. “Excuse me, but are Mike and Neal at home?”

“Yes. We’re all headed for a dinner party at the apartment. Why are you asking?” The woman asked her with a good deal of suspicion.

“Sorry I should have introduced myself, Josephine Cartwright. I live in twelve B across the hall.” Josie told the woman honestly.

“Oh you’re the police officer that lives across the boys. I’m Ann Bell, this my husband James, and these are Marcie and Grant Fontaine.” The woman said with a smile then added. “Mike and Neal told us that we had a female police officer in the building. They didn’t say you were cute.”

“Um… Thank you. are you sure the guys are home?” Josie asked them.

“Of course we’re sure officer. Is there a problem?” James Bell asked her.

“I hope not, but their car isn’t in the usual spot.” Josie told him just as the doors opened to the twelfth floor. Stepping out Josie headed directly to 12C and knocked. Mike answered the door.

“Josie good to see you. You’re home early.” Mike said as he waved for her to enter.

“Before you get excited about see me Mike. Did Neal take the car somewhere?” Josie asked him.

“No. He’s in the kitchen. Why are you asking about our car Josie?” Mike asked as he shook hands with the rest of their dinner guests.

“I think your car has been stolen, Mike. Let me call this in.” Josie said and stepped out of the way to make her call.

“No need to worry about our car Josie. It’s in the shop. Some dumb ass backed into us in the Wally world parking lot. Crushed the rear corner panel on the passenger side.” Neal told her then pointed towards the twelve pack in her hand. “Bad day at work?”

“Not as bad as it could be.” Josie answered with a chuckle. “Well since your car is in the shop. I’ll leave you to your dinner and guests guys.”

“You had anything to eat yet Josie?” Mike asked her with a smile.

“Not yet, but you don’t want me at your table. I smell like horses.” Josie chuckled.

“Considering what you do for a living that’s no surprise.” Mike snarked as he took the beer from her. After handing her one Mike put the rest in the refrigerator.

“Why on earth would a police officer smell like a horse?” Marcie asked as she poured herself and Ann glasses of wine.

“Josie here is a member of the Horse Mount Patrol.” Neal told her before looking over at Josie. “Go on and join the others Josie.”

“Okay I’ll stay but only for dinner and a few beers. I got a long day tomorrow.” Josie said as she joined the two couples and Mike in the living room. The evening went longer than she expected. The two married couples wanted to learn all about the Mounted Division and why it was even still around. The two husbands were floored to learn that it was cheaper and more efficient to ride horses in certain parts of the city.

As the conversation flowed, Josie found herself fielding a barrage of curious questions, from the kinds of horses the division favored to the training required for both officers and mounts. Laughter filled the room as she recounted a few memorable stories from patrol, like the time her horse, helped calm a crowd during a street festival, or how navigating narrow alleyways was surprisingly easier on horseback than in a police cruiser. Even Marcie, who’d admitted she’d never been close to a horse, seemed intrigued by the camaraderie and unique challenges Josie described. By the end of the evening, the guests had a newfound appreciation for the Mounted Division, and Josie, though still smelling faintly of the barn, felt more at home than she had all day.

-----tbc-----

PS I hope everyone had a wonderful Holiday and your New Year shines bright.

PPS All figures and facts stated in this chapter were verified through Google, the National Police database, the Mad Barn, the Horse Farmer, and Hot Horse Trainer websites.