The Hawaii Police Department held a recognition ceremony Friday for the 96th police recruit class graduates in Hilo, according to a news release.

The small ceremony took place at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel and was limited to family members of the recruits.

The 96th class began instruction on July 1, and after six months of rigorous training, seven police recruits graduated from the program.

Class officers include Officer Kimberly Palea-Springer, the class president, and Officer Hunter Rapoza, the vice president of the recruiting class.

Other class members are Zachary Hale, Patrick Manila, Israel Mata, Tammy Messina and Andrew Padilla.

Officer Palea-Springer was recognized at the ceremony for maintaining the highest grade point average every week, including certification examinations. 

“Officer Mata was presented with the Firearms Award for his interest and proficiency in the use of firearms and for attaining the highest rating in firearms training,” according to the release. It added, “Officer Hunter Rapoza was recognized with the Physical Fitness Award for excelling and maintaining his level of physical conditioning.”

The newly graduated officers will spend the next four months field training with veteran police officers before they are qualified to work alone.