While receiving encouraging words and sage advice, 134 students from Basic Training Class #1905 graduated during a ceremony at the DOC Training Academy in Elizabethtown on Aug. 9. The graduation was the end of a five-week training period for the class, which included both state and county jail corrections officers.
Marirosa Lamas, superintendent at SCI Chester, was the keynote speaker. She pointed out that the graduating class has a lot of opportunity to grow throughout their career with the Department of Corrections.
"You will have the option of looking at your positions as either a job or a career," Superintendent Lamas said. "But either way, you would be wise to keep three things in mind during your duties: dedications, strength and virtues." She then went on to detail what each one should mean to a DOC employee.
Training Academy Director Michael Dooley was also on hand to give remarks, congratulating the class on a job well done during the five weeks of Basic Training and recognizing the support of the many family and friends in attendance. He also recognized the dedication of the Basic Training instructors, thanking them for their efforts and their role in developing corrections professionals.
Robert Murphy, from American Legion Post 329, also participated in the ceremony by presenting the Professional Image award.