The State Patrol has been named the best law enforcement agency in the nation by the International Association of Chiefs of the Police, Gov. Chris Gregoire announced Tuesday.

(Washington State Patrol photo)

The 115-year-old association credited a reduction of deaths and injuries on Washington's highways. Last year, there were 70 fewer deaths in Washington than in 2006.

"The Washington State Patrol has always been committed to traffic safety, and the numbers show they're being effective," IACP president Ron Ruecker said in a statement.

The achievement follows the patrol's 2006 recognition by the same organization in a category as best state police agency of its size. The State Patrol came out on top of 23 prevoius category winners.

"Each of our families is safer because of the lifesaving work done by these men and women," Gregoire said in a news release.

State Patrol Chief John R. Batiste called it an "exceptional honor" that "belongs to the (uniformed and civilian) men and women of WSP who are committed to reducing deaths and injuries on Washington highways."

Not only do people think troopers are the nation's best at their job. They're also the best dressed.

Last October, the National Association of Uniform Manufacturers and Distributors gave our State Patrol troopers that distinction in a nationwide contest. Some said it was the "Smokey Bear" campaign hats that put them over the edge.

"If you really want to be the best, you have to look your best," State Patrol Chief John Batiste said in a statement last fall.

Troopers have a summer uniform, which includes a short-sleeved shirt and a straw campaign hat. The winter uniform, which troopers starting wearing Nov. 1, has a long-sleeved shirt, felt campaign hat and a bow tie that can be switched for a navy blue turtle neck.

"We sometimes take a little razzing for the bow tie," State Patrol trooper Jeff Merrill said last fall, "but we think it looks awfully sharp."

Troopers are required to keep their uniform and patrol car clean. Many dry clean their uniforms about once a week and keep a backup in their car in case they run into, uh, dirty work.

When Merrill isn't working, he's got a favorite pair of black Nike sweatpants, flip flops and a beloved baggy T-shirt.

"We just try to blend in when were not working," he said.

This post includes information from P-I reporter Mike Barber.