MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee Police Department welcomed 25 new graduates to the force Tuesday, June 17.
A ceremony was held at the Milwaukee Police Academy, where family and friends helped pin the badges on the new officers.
Mayor Cavalier Johnson told the audience becoming an officer is not a path everyone is willing to take.
He also spoke about the risks officers face, citing a shooting last week that injured an officer.
Chief Jeffrey Norman called it a happy and proud day, adding Milwaukee needs more officers.
In recent weeks, the police union that represents officers has criticized the department for being understaffed.
In response, the mayor and chief have urged community members to join.
"Ready to get out and help the community however I can," said Ruben Garcia, new MPD officer. "It was one of my biggest things coming in -- what can I do for the community? And I thought this job was calling for that."
"We are out engaging the community to ask for those who are willing to step up," Chief Norman said. "And we need to make sure that we're going to all different spaces."
Chief Norman praised the diverse backgrounds of the newest class of officers.
Fallen Milwaukee Police Officer Peter Jerving's parents attended the ceremony in support of the new class.