Week 18

Eighteen weeks gone; where did the time go? Week one started with the original 17 trainees of the 21st Session getting smoked on the lot for the very first time. Week 18 ended with the remaining 11 trainees taking the Oath of Office as Deputy Sheriffs.

As the numbers dwindled, the Class pulled together, relying on each other to persevere. By the end, they were a very close-knit group. When asked what he would miss about the academy, the Class President said, “Everything, this environment. I’m going to miss us all being together and having fun.”

Every trainee interviewed said the same thing. Many of them also agreed on what they would miss the LEAST.

“Hitting the lot,” one said quickly.

Another joked, “or ‘Corrective Action’ as lieutenant calls it.”

The 18th week started slowly; on Monday, the then-trainees put on their entire Class A uniforms for the first time as they posed for their employee portraits. Spirits were high as they discussed the upcoming graduation and their hopes for the future.

“Five years from now, I hope to be advancing my career, hopefully moving up the ranks.”

“In five years, I’d like to be going through the police academy to become dual certified to further my career. I want to work in civil enforcement. The motor unit interests me, too.”

They posed for their pictures one by one, proudly wearing the badges that would soon be theirs. Then, the Class hit the lot for their FINAL workout with the academy instructors—a bittersweet moment to mark the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.

“I feel a little excited. I am a little bit nervous. But I feel confident in our instructors and how they trained us.”

Tuesday and Wednesday were spent reviewing lesson plans and rehearsing for graduation.

“I feel fantastic. It’s finally over with. We’re all excited to be out serving our community.”

Then, the big day was here. Eleven candidates entered City Council Chambers as trainees and left as certified Deputy Sheriffs. They pushed themselves further and achieved more than they ever thought possible.

“I’m confident they will become great deputies,” said Undersheriff David Rosado. “These individuals have already shown passion for making a difference in our community by volunteering and helping others.”  

Today (Friday), they reported for duty for the first time. The Class will spend today and Monday getting certified in civil process and court security. Then, they will report to their new assignments with stars in their eyes and happy memories in their hearts.

“There’s nothing I won’t miss… it wasn’t always easy, but we learned a lot.”

This academy’s blog is ending, but the next one is about to start! We are now hiring for our 22nd Session Deputy Training Academy. Check our social media pages and website (https://chesapeakesheriff.com/?page_id=838) for more information.