Milwaukee Police Department welcomes more than 40 new recruits

MILWAUKEE -- More than 40 police recruits are now full-fledged police officers as they graduated from the Milwaukee Police Academy on Thursday afternoon, February 16th.

MPD welcomes new recruits

There were a lot of happy faces as the men and women of the graduating class took their oath. Interestingly, FOX6 News met this group earlier in February when they were interacting and having fun with students at Carmen Middle and High School -- building community bonds that are so important.

Thursday was all about the pomp and circumstance.

MPD welcomes new recruits

“It was awesome. I mean, it was a great experience. We grew up together, so it was nice seeing him being able to do the same things I’m doing," said new officers Charles Scaife and Michael Allen.

FOX6 News also spoke to a mother of one of the new officers.

MPD welcomes new recruits

"I think it's a good choice for him. I think he’s a good communicator. He’s easily to talk to, so I think he will be very successful," said Jody Holeman.

During the ceremony, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett told the group it was important to connect with the community, adding that living in the community would go a long way in doing that.

MPD welcomes new recruits

Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn reminded the officers that this is a demanding job, and their actions individually represent the entire department. The new officers FOX6 News spoke with said they’re ready to get to it.