Fifty-two recruits graduated from the 89th Basic Police Recruit Class of the Camden County College Police Academy on Dec. 12 in a ceremony at the Camden County College Dennis Flyer Theater.
Family, friends, and officials joined the recruits, including county Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli Jr.; county Sheriff Gilbert “Whip” Wilson; academy director Robert Doyle; deputy director Edward R. Kunkel; and Washington Township Police Chief Patrick Gurcsik, who delivered a rousing keynote address.
“These recruits have just completed rigorous training and are set to begin their careers in law enforcement,” said Cappelli. “I am incredibly proud of each and every one of these remarkable individuals and expect great things from them in the future.”
The event highlighted the achievements of the recruits, who completed intensive physical, academic and tactical training over several months. A particularly emotional moment came during the badge-pinning ceremony, where many recruits were pinned by family members who have served or are currently serving in law enforcement.
The gesture symbolized the passing of the torch to the next generation of officers and underscored the importance of family in supporting those who serve.
Among the 52 graduates, 12 will join the Camden County Police Department. Recruits have also been appointed to departments in Cherry Hill, Gloucester Township, Evesham Township and Burlington Township. Others are in the Alternate Route program, which affords graduates the flexibility to seek positions in departments of their choosing.
Gurcsik emphasized the importance of integrity, resilience, and community engagement in policing and encouraged the graduates to approach their new roles with humility and a commitment to building trust with the communities they serve.
“Your badge is not just a symbol of authority,” he emphasized. “It’s a symbol of responsibility. You are stepping into a role that demands courage, empathy and the unwavering pursuit of justice. Never forget the people you serve.”
The 89th class included recruits from various backgrounds and departments, demonstrating the diversity and inclusivity of the academy’s program. Following is a list of the graduates and their assigned departments:
- Camden County Police Department: 12 recruits
- Burlington Township Police Department: four recruits
- Gloucester Township Police Department: two recruits
- Evesham Township Police Department: four recruits
- Delaware River Port Authority: three recruits
- Magnolia police department: two recruits
- Washington Township Police Department: four recruits
- Alternate Route Program: five recruits
The academy, located at the county Regional Emergency Training Center, is a vital resource for preparing recruits. Director Robert Doyle and deputy director Edward Kunkel praised the recruits for their perseverance and dedication.
“Graduating from this program is no small feat,” Doyle noted. “These individuals have proven they have what it takes to protect and serve with distinction.”
For more information, visit the Camden County College Police Academy website.
