New Police Department class graduates

On Friday 38 men and women officially became Philadelphia Police Officers.

They are no longer recruits. They are now, Philadelphia police officers. Their job will be to "serve and protect" the people of Philadelphia.

But new commissioner Richard Ross predicted they will do far more serving than protecting.

"People all across this city, know that they want and need your service. They know that your presence makes a difference, and I don't ever want you to forget that." Class 374 is an impressive bunch.

The Valedictorian, 27 year old Michelle Arrigo, has a bachelor's degree from Drexel University and several associate degrees as well.

"It is a good background to have-- just basic knowledge that-- knowledge is powers, so..."

Twenty-four year old Jordan DuBois graduated from George Mason university, serves as a second lieutenant in the Army Reserves- military intelligence- and now is fulfilling a lifelong dream.

"This job just kinda chooses you. And it's one of the best jobs you can possibly do-- to serve the public and -- that's all you really have to want to do is have heart and want to serve the public," he said.

The ceremony was dedicated to the memory of Philadelphia police officer James Ramp- shot to death in the line of duty back in 1978- in fact, several surviving family members were on hand.

Just over three weeks ago, officer Jesse Hartnett was ambushed and badly wounded by a man claiming to have acted on behalf of the Islamic State.

But Commissioner Ross warned these new cops on the beat to avoid preconceived notions.

What you see, he told them, often depends on what you're looking for.

"And if you look for only the bad people, that's all you'll see. You'll miss the coach, you'll miss the mentor, you'll miss the person that's out there sweeping the block up and cleaning...you'll miss all of that."