Bermuda’s nine new police officers completed recruit foundation course 82 at a ceremony yesterday with Rena Lalgie, the Governor, urging them to be “brave, compassionate, and above all, the guardians the community deserve”.

Ms Lalgie thanked their families and loved ones for supporting the recruits, adding: “I am quite impressed to see the crowd you have drawn this afternoon.”

Michael Weeks, the Minister of National Security, told the ceremony at Police Headquarters in Prospect of his “joy and optimism” to see that most recruits had joined early in their careers, bringing “youth, potential and promise to our police force”.

Mr Weeks praised others who had decided to change their careers and join the service, bringing their experience to the ranks.

“All our newest officers are Bermudian or spouses of Bermudians, underscoring the fact that the Bermuda Police Service is an organisation that values Bermudians, and is an entity in which Bermudians can thrive and give back to their island home.”

He added: “Policing is not merely a profession — it is a calling that demands unwavering dedication and selflessness.”

Mr Weeks called on the nine to channel their commitment to “building bridges and strengthening bonds between law enforcement and the community we serve”.

He noted that new police constables James Adams, Christopher DeSilva and Kyrun Zuill were following family predecessors into police careers.

Darrin Simons, the Commissioner of Police, warned of the time-consuming, difficult and unsocial hours that lay ahead, and the experiences of traumatic events that “most people in our community only read about”.

Around-the-clock accountability, whether on or off duty, “just comes with the job”, he told them.

“The biggest reward is not found in what you get, but rather in what you give.”

Mr Simons added: “To the men and women of RC82, I say congratulations, welcome to the family, and get ready for the ride of your life.”

The new police officers are Bryana Bell, James Adams, Christopher DeSilva, Raeshun Robinson, Kyrun Zuill, Kwensi Cann, Julian Johnson, Kelise Stewart and Sandra Stowe.

Awards began with the Instructors Cup for the Flatt 10k run, with Pc Bell top in the women’s category and Pc Cann getting the men’s award.

For best all-around athlete, Pc Bell was recognised in the women’s category, and Pc Adams in the men’s.

Recruits are divided into blue and red syndicates, with the blue team taking the Syndicate Shield, which was collected by Pc Adams.

The Academic Award was bestowed on Pc DeSilva.

Police recruits traditionally raise money for the charity of their choice, and Laurie Shiell Smith, director of the Centre Against Abuse, was presented a cheque for $3,000.

The Michael Mylod’s Trophy for the officer who demonstrated noteworthy development during the course went to Pc Stewart, while the Baton of Honour for best all around student officer went to Pc Adams.

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