22 new graduates of the Philadelphia Police Academy filed on stage at Temple University's Student Center Friday morning.
With diplomas in hand, they joined the ranks they have been working hard to become a part of, while their families happily looked on.
"He did 8 years in the Army and now he's going to be a cop," said Ginny Rillera.
"It's something I always wanted to do," said Peter Anapol. "To see him get to this point is wonderful."
Some are following in family footsteps, others are forging a fresh path.
Class 366 dedicated their training to the memory of Highway Patrol Officer Brian Lorenzo, who died in 2012 when his motorcycle was struck head-on by a drunk driver on I-95. His colleagues lined the auditorium while his family was invited on stage.
Those who knew Lorenzo and even those he never met explain his example as one to emulate; a man dedicated to his service and his family.
"You are a small group, but you are an important group," said Police Commissioner Charles Ramsey. "You have one tremendous legacy to live up to and that's High Patrol Officer Brian Lorenzo and what he left behind."
Friday's graduation is the culmination of a lot of hard work, not just at the academy, but for some it has been a lifelong dream. It was a proud day for family and officers alike.
"He has always wanted to be a police officer, so for him to achieve this goal is a big one," said Rose Anapol.
"My mom was a police officer, she still is, and I always wanted to help people. Prior to this, I was helping people, and I still want to continue doing so," said Sicily Milligan.
