January 16, 2013

Mayor Emanuel, Superintendent McCarthy and Police Department Celebrate Graduation of Latest Police Recruit Class

Mayor's Press Office    312.744.3334

CHICAGO – Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Chicago Police Superintendent Garry F. McCarthy participated in the graduation ceremony of 32 police recruits at a ceremony at Navy Pier today.  The class marks the third group of police recruits to graduate from the Department’s Police Academy since Mayor Emanuel took office and under Superintendent McCarthy’s tenure.

“Today is a tremendous occasion to welcome highly motivated, energetic, and courageous men and women prepared to serve in the country’s strongest police department,” said Mayor Rahm Emanuel.  “There is no sacrifice that is more worthwhile than serving and protecting our communities. Every officer in the Chicago Police Department has my full and ongoing support. I will do whatever I can to help them keep our city safe, which is why I am introducing a City ordinance tomorrow that will impose stronger penalties and reporting requirements for guns in Chicago.”

The graduating class will include three active military personnel, four veterans, and three multi-generation officers, highlighting the tradition of leadership and commitment inherent in law enforcement.

“I am proud every time we congratulate the newest members of the Chicago Police Department on a life-changing decision to uphold and follow the law with unwavering courage and integrity,” said Superintendent McCarthy. “Nothing is more rewarding than serving this city and this country with honor and respect,” he added.

The ceremony will recognize exceptional examples of excellence with awards given for Top Gun, Academics, Physical Skills, Outstanding Recruit, and the Thor Soderberg Award. Officer Soderberg was a training Academy Officer who was killed in the line of duty.

Prior to graduation, the new class of probationary police officers spent five months as recruits in the Department’s Police Academy, where they received approximately 1,000 hours of instruction and training. The class now enters a Field Training Program; upon completion of the program and 13 months in the field, the probationary officers will become full-fledged police officers.

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