Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly today presided over a graduation ceremony for 1,359 new police officers at Madison Square Garden. This is the first class of officers to join the Police Department since September 11th, when 23 officers were lost.

"I congratulate this group of men and women for embarking upon an extraordinary and fulfilling career in the New York City Police Department," Mayor Bloomberg said. "Our police officers make sure our streets are safe and place their lives at risk to protect us. Their public service is indispensable. Whether responding to dangerous emergencies or assisting their fellow New Yorkers in their everyday lives, the men and women who make up New York's Finest inspire us all and deserve our gratitude."

"If any class earned its stripes early on, it is this class," Commissioner Kelly said. "In fact, in the wake of September 11th, these officers have had more field experience than any class in history."

Mayor Bloomberg also presented the "Mayor's Award" to Police Officer Michele Lambert, whose 98.1% overall average was highest among the graduates, at the ceremony. The graduates recently completed approximately eight months of training at the Police Academy and in various field assignments, including duty related to the September 11th attack, the New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square, and the World Economic Forum. The new officers will be assigned to various commands throughout the City, including the Patrol Services Bureau, Housing Bureau, and Transit Division.