SAN ANTONIO — Friday morning 34 cadets with the San Antonio Police Department's Cadet Class 24-Alpha, graduated becoming SAPD's newest officers.
The cadets began their training eight months ago. Officer David Peters says it took a lot of hard work to complete the academy.
"A lot of mental toughness and just physical endurance. So to get there, you really got to push yourself. You got to have a supporting family, the supporting staff, and you just have to have to have the will to fight and to be here at this moment." said Officer Peters.
Peters says he overcame a lot of self doubt. Officer Alejandro Valdivia also says it took mental toughness and a winning mindset that kept him grinding through the program.
"As long as you stay true to yourself, you have that grit and that mindset that anything is possible," said Officer Valdivia.
As for Peters he says he's got his confidence back and credits the academy with giving him the opportunity to excel and beat any self doubt.
Peters says becoming an SAPD officer is a special moment not just for him, but his family and has been one of his biggest goals in life.
Frida, Peters made his childhood dream a reality and now takes his first steps, ready to serve and protect.
"This is just the beginning, to be here at this moment, It feels amazing. Honestly, It's just a dream come true," said Officer Peters.