Their big night is finally here.
5 On Your Side got a chance Thursday night to meet the St. Louis County and Municipal Academy Class 209.
"It really feels good," said Officer Abdullah Malk, a proud new member of the Overland Police Department.
"It's awesome," said Officer Joe Roesch, a proud member of the St. Louis County Police Department.
Eleven of the graduates, specifically 10 men and one woman, will work for the St. Louis County Police Department.
The other 10 will serve and protect in Chesterfield, Hazelwood and other surrounding areas in the county.
Roesch, 23, is the first police officer in his family.
"I am extremely excited. It feels good to be a St. Louis County police officer," he said.
His proud parents couldn't stop smiling.
"He looks fantastic in his new police uniform. Very impressive. We're so proud," said the new police officer's father, John Roesch.
"Yes, he's worked really, really hard," said Roesch's mother, Tracey Roesch.
"It feels good. It feels like a dream come true. It's something I've always wanted to do," said Officer Abdullah Malik, who's excited to now join the Overland Police Department.
"It's also something I've wanted to do," said Officer Jaylan Valentine, who's also now a new member of the St. Louis County Police Department.
His father, St. Louis County Detective Antonio Valentine, served on the force for more than a decade before he was killed in 2021 when a stolen car plowed into him during a head-on crash.
Jaylan Valentine shared his thoughts during on a special video the police department put together for the new police grads.
"I'm ready to jump into my field and this is what I've chosen to do," Valentine said in the video.
However, this night was a time to honor, support and celebrate this courageous class as the new officers embark upon their law enforcement careers.
They will work alongside the county police department's current 956 officers.
After six months of intense training, determination and commitment, you bet the new officers are ready to hit the streets, some as early as this weekend.
"They're going to make a difference in the neighborhoods. Them getting out there is very important at this time when we are shorthanded. Summer's here. It's hot out, people are active and we need officers out there. We are so proud of all of them," said Captain Steven Tucker with the St. Louis County and Municipal Police Academy.