It takes honor, pride, and courage to wear a New York State Police uniform. 

"I know it's a difficult road. I'm exceedingly proud of all of them," says Superintendent Keith Corlett.

Families and friends packed in to the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany on Tuesday to celebrate the graduate's achievements. It’s been a grueling path for these cadets. Of 1,700 recruits, 228 walked across the stage. 

"It's been exhausting mentally and emotionally," said graduate Taylor Salaway.

The Salaway siblings endured the process of becoming state troopers together. Taylor, 22, and her brother Carson Salaway, 24, both say it was nice to have a support system to help them through the tough days.

"For the most part, you don't know anybody going into that first night. We were right by each other’s side the entire time," said Carson.

However, their walk for their diploma is extra special, as it's the very same path as their father's. 

"As far back as I remember, I wanted to be like him personally and professionally," added Carson.

Sergeant Charles Salaway served as a trooper for nearly three decades. He was part of the search efforts at Ground Zero days after September 11. In 2018, he died from cancer stemming from his response after the terror attack.

"He was my hero for as long as I can remember and he always will be. He did this job for 27 years and would’ve kept doing it if he could have," added Carson.

The 24-year-old will be serving at Troop G in Latham, the barracks his father called home. He'll proudly wear the number 3242, the same as his dad.

"We just want to go out do what he did and make him proud," says the new Trooper. 

"That's why we joined,” said Taylor. “We want to be there to help people so we'll make the same sacrifice he made."

As the Salaways begin their watch, they know their dad is watching over, still serving and protecting.

"Whether we're working or not working, he's always with us," says Carson.

"We wish he was here but we know he's looking down us smiling, ear to ear, so proud of us," says Taylor.

Their graduation comes just one day after the 9/11 Victim’s Compensation Fund was passed in D.C. It now heads to President Donald Trump's desk to be signed into law.