by Heather Greenfield, Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) - When he was a child, Andrew Richardson used to ride along in his father’s police car as Metropolitan Police Sgt. Dave Richardson patrolled the streets of the nation’s capital.
On Friday, the now retired Richardson helped pin on his son’s badge during the police academy’s graduation ceremony.
“It’s a very proud moment,” Dave Richardson said, joking that now he will do a ride along in his son’s patrol car.
The Metropolitan Police Department welcomed 21 new recruits Friday, the first police academy class to begin their training after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. The officers began their training Sept. 24.
“I received the letter I was hired Sept. 10,” said Andrew Richardson. “It added another dimension to the danger.”
He was assigned to Ward 7, where his father served for 19 years.
District of Columbia Police Chief Charles Ramsey told the graduates that despite the dangers of terrorism, the fundamental job of a police officer - “to serve mankind” - remains the same.
Ramsey said one officer is accepted for every 100 who apply, and that the competition for recruits is more difficult since Sept. 11.
The MPD also has to compete for recruits because of additional jobs at with the U.S. Park Police, Secret Service and FBI.
Doris Prather, who helped pinned the badge on her son, Officer Jelani Prather, said she was nervous when he announced his decision to go to the police academy, but said she’s proud of him.
“If he can help out in any way I hope he can step up and take the challenge,” Prather said.