24 men and three women were sworn in Thursday as Montgomery County law enforcement officers during the 77th commencement exercises.
16 of the new training class graduates became members of the Montgomery County Police, two are serving as county sheriff officers, three are with the fire and explosive unit of the Montgomery County Fire Department, four are Gaithersburg officers and two are Rockville officers.
The graduates, who will now begin field training, represent seven countries and speak six languages. Eight have prior military service and one previously worked in law enforcement, according to Police Chief Marc Yamada.
Yamada praised both the new officers and their families who attended the commencement exercises at the Robert Parilla Performing Arts Center at Montgomery College’s Rockville campus.
While the academy part of their training now is complete, the officers will never stop learning “as long as you are in our profession,” Yamada said. They will have to keep up with new laws, new standards and new ways of doing their work, he said.
He warned the officers, “You will face constant public scrutiny” from a public that expects nothing less than perfection. Their job is to “figure out ways to be your best in the most trying circumstances.”
The 27 new officers entered the stage for their commencement exercise @mymcmedia @RockvilleCityPD @GPDNews @mcfrs pic.twitter.com/2hWCgYgZH8
— suzanne pollak (@SuzannePollak) August 8, 2024
County Executive Marc Elrich vowed to make sure the officers are paid a competitive salary and have the resources needed to do their job, which is what should be done “for anyone who puts their life on the line.”
He added, “You are going to give back to this community probably far more than we are ever going to give to you.”
Elrich said, “I want to thank you for choosing this noble profession.”
County Council President Andrew Friedson added, “We are here to support you. We are here to uplift you,” adding, “We are praying for your safety, and we are grateful for your service.”
Police Lt. Tenesha Jensen, deputy director of training and education, advised the officers, “Find your tribe.” Seek out mentors and people who want you to succeed and speak with them often, she said. Take time to relax and recharge, and “have faith in yourself and your training.”
Always remember, Jensen said, “Right is right even if no one is doing it, and wrong is wrong even if everyone is doing it.”
She recalled being in their position 26 years ago. Everyone is probably thinking, “Finally, no more pushups.” Be proud. “This day is for all of you.”
The previous commencement exercises were held in December. At that time, 34 men and women became officers.
