'Represent City's Diversity'
344 Probationary COs Join Ranks

By REUVEN BLAU

Mayor Bloomberg Oct. 10 presided over a graduation ceremony for 344 Correction Officers, including a pair of engaged officers and scores of new recruits with family connections in the department.

Hundreds of family members and friends gathered at Brooklyn College to applaud the graduates. "This is quite an occasion for them, too," Mr. Bloomberg told the crowd. "After all, they've encouraged you, supported you, and been there for you every step of the way."

'A Great Opportunity'

The Mayor and Correction Commissioner Martin F. Horn noted that more than half of the new officers are women, that African-Americans and Latinos comprise roughly 85 percent of the class, and 40 COs have family members either retired or presently working in the department.

"Correction Officer work continues to be a great career opportunity for New Yorkers from all backgrounds, as many of you know from the tradition of correction in your families," Mr. Horn said.

In all, 25 new officers have served in the military, 71 have associate's degrees, 58 have bachelor's degrees, and three have earned master's degrees. In addition, 68 of the officers have worked in other city agencies.

Mr. Bloomberg highlighted the class's diversity, holding up a quarter and noting that it bears the inscription, "E Pluribus Unum," which means "Out of many, one." That is the "true spirit" of the nation and graduating class, he remarked. "You represent the full diversity of our great city."

Twins Carry On for Dad

He also pointed out that twin brothers, Christopher and Robert DiTomasso, were part of the class. Their father, Robert Sr., is a retired Correction Officer. "And then there are two members of this class who are creating their own Correction connection: Cycerly Fair and Shawn Furlow," Mr. Bloomberg continued. "They're not only about to graduate together - they're also engaged to each other."

All the new officers have completed 15 weeks of instruction at the Training Academy in Middle Village, Queens. The courses include instruction in security, use of necessary force techniques and chemical agents, constitutional law, physical

training, communication skills, investigative procedures, and first aid. The graduates have been assigned to various Rikers Island facilities.