(COLORADO SPRINGS) — On Thursday, Nov. 14, 28 recruits graduated into the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) during a ceremony of the 79th Police Officer Class at Village Seven Presbyterian Church.

The graduates completed 26 weeks of intensive training, encompassing hands-on exercises and testing. Following graduation, the new officers will enter a 15-week field training program before responding to calls independently.

The 28 recruits represent 12 states, as well as Guam, American Samoa, Brazil, and Mexico. Sixteen are veterans or active military members, two hold master’s degrees, 12 have bachelor’s degrees, 12 have associate degrees, and two have some college experience.