Montgomery, AL – In a heartwarming ceremony held at the Alabama State Capitol on Thursday, December 14, Governor Kay Ivey proudly announced the newest addition to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) – Millie the Work Zone Safety Dog. Joined by ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor and Millie’s handler, Morris King, Governor Ivey delivered the oath of office, officially inducting Millie as an honorary ALEA Trooper.
Millie, a Labrador Retriever, has earned her place as a beloved and familiar figure throughout Alabama. Certified as a therapy dog and holding the esteemed position of the official safety dog of the Alabama Associated General Contractors (AGC), Millie has spent the past four years traveling across the state with her devoted human partner. Together, they have tirelessly worked to educate communities about the critical importance of work zone safety and the hazards of distracted driving.
Through engaging programs like “Lessons with Millie” and “No Phones in the Cone Zone,” Millie has not only captured the hearts of Alabamians but has also delivered essential safety messages aimed at saving lives on the road.
Governor Ivey, upon swearing in Millie as an honorary ALEA Trooper, commended the Labrador Retriever for her significant impact on the state’s work zone safety initiatives.
“Millie’s commitment to promoting work zone safety is truly commendable. Today, we honor her dedication to both safety and education by officially making her an honorary ALEA Trooper. May Millie continue to inspire us all to prioritize safety on our roads and highways,” said Governor Ivey.
Throughout the years, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has collaborated with Millie and Morris King on multiple occasions to spread safety messages in schools and during the National Safety Zone Awareness Week, which occurs annually in April.
Secretary Hal Taylor emphasized the importance of Millie’s honorary status within ALEA, stating, “This honorary swearing-in ceremony is not just a recognition of Millie’s efforts but also a reminder of the importance of work zone safety. Millie will continue to play a vital role in educating and raising awareness, with the added distinction of being an honorary member of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.”
Among the attendees at the ceremony were ALEA’s Department of Public Safety Director Colonel Jon Archer and Alabama Associated General Contractors CEO Billy Norrell.
For those interested in following Millie’s adventures and educational endeavors, her journey can be tracked on Instagram: @Millie_USA_Therapy_Dog.
