They may be small in number — just four — but their strength, discipline, and unity run deep. The members of the Department of Corrections’ Basic Corrections Officer Training Class 2025-01 have proven that it’s not the size of the class that defines them, but the heart behind the badge.

They began their journey back in April — four recruits with one mission: to earn the badge of a Guam Department of Corrections officer. For 20-year-old CO1 Bailee Sablan, he says of his purpose, ""What really was a go getter for me for this profession is my family and to be a role model for my son. I wanted to provide for my family where it is rewarding and its not just a regular job."

New CO1 29-year-old Jacob John Garrido shares his challenge throughout the training. "Leading a team of unique individuals from different backgrounds and ages and getting them to come together to be a really good cycle for our cadres, for the department," he said.

Over the past several months, they’ve pushed through long days of intensive physical training, classroom instruction, and scenario-based exercises — learning not just the policies and procedures, but the responsibility and discipline the uniform demands.

"The biggest lessons I've learned personally is verbal judo. it helps lessen the physical contact, necessary to gain compliance," said Garrido. And Sablan added, "Responsibility as well as integrity, just having those three things will make you a good officer."

And after months of training, testing, and field experience, these recruits have now fulfilled their post-certification requirements — officially earning their place among Guam’s correctional officers.

Cadre Santos said, "These quality officers will make a difference."

Through it all, they’ve built more than just skills. They’ve built a bond — one forged through shared challenges, mutual respect, and an unwavering commitment to serve. Santos said, "Our goal in any cycle we try to teach them everything they need to know and give them the tools and that they can be confident in their knowledge and skills to become a corrections officer."

With their families, mentors, and fellow officers looking on thursday afternoon  CO1 Sablan, CO1 Taimanglo, CO1 Garrido, and CO1 Ruben were given their badges and oath of office to start the process of officially applying the training they have received. The four stood proud- pledging to uphold the law, protect the community, and carry out their duties with integrity and honor.

DOC says BCOT 2025-01 exemplifies the agency’s mission to develop well-trained, professional officers dedicated to public safety and rehabilitation — proof that even a class of four can make a powerful impact. These newly sworn corrections officers will join the 15th Guam Police Department’s Training Cycle in December for a combined graduation of police and corrections officers that have trained together.

Melsior said, "I hope they continue to train, continue to learn, and be a better officer, than everybody else before  them because they have up to date training, and never forget what they've learned."

"This group has come a long way, from the beginning phase as a civilian, now to almost becoming an officer, they have come a long way - they have changed a lot mentally and physically, and now I believe they are ready to uphold the standards of a corrections officer."

Santos adeed, "They are well rounded, and well equipped for the job. they are up for the challenge."