"We were initially formed to promote safety on the highways, and that's our number one function yet today," explained Sgt. Paul Reinsch Public Information officer. "Whether any division we have within the patrol, their function is to promote that safety and keep people as safe as they possibly can."

Started in 1931, the Missouri State Highway Patrol now includes communications, bomb squads, in addition to the troopers seen daily on the highway. With old patrol cars on display outside and demonstration tables inside, visitors learned what a day in the life of a highway patrol trooper can mean.

"It's something different everyday." said trooper Bruce McLaughlin. "You never know what you are going to get into that day. You might have your day all planned out, but in a moment's notice, it all changes because you may be involved in a pursuit, trying to catch a bank robber."

It's an unpredictable, yet necessary job.

"It means serving the public and doing it in such a way that they appreciate what we are doing," said McLaughlin.

In the past 75 years, 27 Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers have given their lives doing their job.