On Tuesday, six officers were sworn in at the Selma Police Department.

It was the largest amount of officers sworn in at one time since Police Chief Jimmy Martin has been in office.

We congratulate the officers on their new jobs.

Police officers have a sworn duty to protect the public, and as part of the swearing in ceremony, they vowed to never betray their badges, their integrity, their character or the public’s trust.

“I will always have the courage to hold myself and others accountable for our actions. I will always uphold the constitution, my community and the agency I serve to the best of my abilities,” the newly-minted officers promised, their left hands placed on a small, leather-bound Policeman’s Bible, their right hands raised to the sky.

The new additions couldn’t have come at a better time as the department is down a few officers.

During the last two months, three police officers have retired and one is overseas, Martin said.

The department now has

a total of 59 officers on the force, including the new hires. Martin said his vision for a complete police force is 64 officers.

The officers must complete a 12-week training session and will attend police academy in May.

As public servants for the City of Selma, Martin encouraged the group to keep a sound head, an open mind and listen to the concerns of the community.

While welcoming these officers to the Selma force, we encourage Chief Martin and the department to continue its search for competent officers to patrol Selma’s streets.