Ask a Trooper by Troy Christianson

Question: What do those words on the door of your squad car “L’ETOILE DU NORD” mean?

Answer: Our squad car door badge displays the seal of Minnesota, including the French phrase “L’Etoile du Nord,” meaning “The Star of the North.” This motto was chosen by our first governor, Henry Hastings Sibley, and became the state motto in 1861. This was three years after Minnesota was admitted to the union. The state seal is also included on our badge, hat badge, shoulder patches and tie tac.

You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and, of course, drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota toward zero deaths.

If you have any questions concerning traffic-related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson, Minnesota State Patrol, at 2900 48th St. NW, Rochester, MN 55901-5848; or reach him at Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us.

Troy Christianson is a sergeant with the Minnesota State Patrol.