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The ceremony started with blessings from the Rev. Norman, and Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano spoke to the probationary officers.
"Congratulations to our 13 probationary police officers." Spano said. "You have been provided with the best training for the best police department in the county. Myself and the City Council will make sure that you have the finest training and equipment. You have our backing."
The 13 probationary police officers are: Shawn Almonte, Angela Ascolillo, Jonathan Blake, Justin Capowski, Philip Collins, Joseph Gannon, John Golebiowski, Kenneth Kreso, Rawlie Phillip, Ray Quinones, Brian Regan, Jesse Servidio and John Theodore. Spano said he fully understands that this is a tough job.
"I have family members in law enforcement and I know firsthand how hard this job is. Always know we are always there for you and we are very proud of you."
Lt. Joseph Solicito was the master of ceremonies and explained the type of training that the men and women experienced.
"There were training about penal law, criminal law, cultural diversity, basic first aid, policy and procedure training, CPR, crime investigation and court processes just to name some of the training," said Solicito. After enduring all of that training, the probationary police officers were partnered with a senior police officer and were monitored, evaluated and upon conclusion they were then assigned to a precinct.
Police Commissioner Charles Gardner thanked Spano for his words.
"Thank you, Mayor Spano and Yonkers City Council, for supporting our department," said Gardner.
Teresa Golebiowski, whose son John Golebiowski is one of the probationary police officers, was at the ceremony.
"I am very proud of my son and this great achievement." When asked if she worries about her son taking on this profession, Golebiowski replied," I am worried as a mother would be."
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