BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) -- The Bakersfield Police Department is welcoming new police officers to its ranks. The Bakersfield Police Academy held a graduation ceremony at the Bakersfield First Assembly of God on California Avenue Thursday morning. After six months of rigorous training, the incoming recruits are ready to serve. "I decided to do this because I really wanted to serve my community. I wanted to give back to it," said graduate Alex Martinez. "I'll drive by the parks nearby my neighborhood and you see all the kids and families enjoying themselves and I wanted to be a positive part for that. This is my community. I've been here my entire life. All my family's here and I love Bakersfield."