People in Kentucky can feel a little safer tonight.
The 89th Cadet Class from the Kentucky State Police Academy were handed their diplomas at a ceremony in Frankfort on Sunday. Cadets recently went through 23 weeks of rigorous physical and mental training to earn the rank of trooper.
Members of the graduating group say they have become a tight-knit family, which will be stationed throughout the Commonwealth.
"I would do anything for any of these guys and gals that I graduated with and I know they would do the same for me," said Trooper Joseph Vorbeck.
Governor Steve Beshear was there to honor the 60 men and women who have now joined the service.
"They're going to be out there in harm's way everyday now and the sacrifices they're making and the sacrifices that their families are making Kentuckians all ought to appreciate them very much," said Gov. Beshear.
The only woman to graduate today, Kenna Burton, was awarded an excellence award for her leadership skills-an achievement she says hopes inspires others to work hard for their dreams.
"I don't want anybody to live in 'what if' I want any little girl or any little boy for that matter even if it is my daughter, I want her to know that she can come through this if that's what she wants," said Burton.
There are now 914 troopers serving the citizens of the Commonwealth.
