"Class 45 on your feet, welcome to your first day of the academy!"

These are the words 25 new police recruits heard Monday morning as they were greeted by command staff and class instructors at the Arlington Police Training Center.

These new academy recruits bring a wealth of diverse experiences and backgrounds to Academy Class 45.

They are husbands, wives, mothers, proud fathers, sons and daughters, ranging in age from 24 to 38. These future officers hail from many parts of the U.S., some from Arlington and others as far away as Indianapolis and Nigeria.

During academy class introductions, many of them spoke proudly of their service to their country in the military. Others said they have enjoyed careers in security and probationary work. One new recruit worked as a north Texas area 9-1-1 dispatcher.

Today, they all have one thing in common - a strong desire to become an Arlington police officer.

"On behalf of Police Chief Theron Bowman who has accepted a temporary assignment in the City Manager's Office, I welcome you to the first day of your new career," Acting Police Chief Will Johnson said.

He told recruits, "your reputation started the day you walked in for preliminary interviews. The reputation you leave behind will be based on your ethics and hard work."

"I expect your best every day," Johnson told the class, which includes nine women. "I expect you to leave everyone you meet with dignity, and to always do what's right."

On this first day, APD command staff members like Assistant Chief Jaime Ayala, Acting Assistant Chief Lauretta Hill and Deputy Chief Kim Lemeaux shared memories of their early days in the academy.

"My dreams came true here at the Arlington Police Department," said Hill, who reminded recruits about the importance of always making good choices.

Everyone instructed the recruits to "take advantage of all the people who are here to help you be the best."

Lt. Leo Daniels added, two important training goals are safety and a 100 percent graduation rate.

"A lot of people wanted to be in your seat today," said Sgt. Tarrick McGuire who heads up Personnel and Recruiting for the department. "Please don't take it for granted. Work hard."

The first day of class is followed by 28 weeks of extensive training that includes classroom instruction, physical fitness training, hours of law enforcement study and exams. Graduation is slated for early February, which is then followed by 18 weeks of training with officers in the field.

Good luck Class 45!

By Cheryel Carpenter