Nashville, Tennessee --- A Tennessee Highway Patrol K-9 visited Friday, March 4 with the Girl Scouts who raised money to buy him a bullet proof vest. The girls, all members of Nashville Troop 1652, held several fund raisers to save the $695 needed for the purchase.

Tennessee Highway Patrol Colonel Lynn Pitts says, "We're moved at the commitment these girls showed by taking on this project. And we appreciate their concern for this hard-working K-9." Pitts presented the girls with a certificate honoring them for their efforts.

The Scouts visited with the dog, named Ammo, and his handler, Trooper Aussie Thaxter, at the THP Kennel at 225 Ezell Pike near the Nashville District Office on Murfreesboro Road. Members of Troop 1652 who worked on the project were Caroline Fortune, Mary Meyer and Katie Perrey, along with troop leader Jo Meyer. The troop is sponsored by St. Henry's Church in Nashville. The girls held various fund raisers for almost two years to raise enough money to buy the vest.

Ammo will wear the vest when working potentially dangerous calls. Pitts says it's an important piece of gear to have, and could save a K-9 officer's life in certain situations.

The Tennessee Department of Safety's mission is (www.tennessee.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.