Thirteen peace officers have taken the next step in their journey to protect and serve.  After six months of intensive academic and physical training, the Guam Police Department’s 15th Police Officer Trainee Cycle took their oath of service today. 

On the front lawn of Adelup this morning, thirteen new officers stood shoulder to shoulder, taking the oath that would transform them from police academy graduates into peace officers. For the 15th Cycle, today’s Oath of Service marks the culmination of months of grueling study, conditioning, and character testing – and the start of a lifetime of duty.

Police Chief Stephen Ignacio says this moment isn’t just ceremonial, it’s a threshold. From here, they’ll head to precincts for on-the-job training, where the true test begins. “They will take all that they have learned, whether from a textbook or from an actual exercise, and properly apply them in the field. They will employ de-escalation techniques, interview and interrogation techniques," he explained.

“Your oath is your contract and your commitment to serve the people of Guam. It’s not just words, but words that you must put into action.”

That action, the chief says, will require strength, compassion, and faith when facing scenes few others ever will. “When times get tough and this job becomes stressful, go find a quiet space and pray. Remember, sometimes the best decisions we make come from our compassion as human beings. Be firm when you need to be, but be compassionate, too," he noted.

In administering the Oath of Service, Governor Lou Leon Guerrero urged the new officers to find courage and conviction in their calling. She told the graduates, “I only ask that you dig deep into your inner strength and soul to raise up the courage, bravery, and confidence that you need to deliver the work that you have to do to protect our people.”

And with an unusually large number of children in the audience – thanks to parent-teacher conference day – Lieutenant Governor Joshua Tenorio offered a heartfelt reminder of who they serve. “I hope that in the morning, when you’re trying to find your motivation, you’re thinking about these kids out here," he said. “Hopefully, you’ll dig deep in your heart on those terrible days and think that these kids are depending on you. And because you’re going to be able to deliver for them, I’m confident that you’re going to deliver for all of us, too. Biba Guam Police Department!”

Surrounded by the families who supported them through months of sacrifice, Guam’s newest officers step forward – not just as enforcers of the law, but as protectors of our homes, our children, and the community they’ve sworn to serve.