LAS VEGAS (KLAS) -- It was a big day for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and for dozens of families who watched their loved ones take the oath to serve.

On Tuesday, 43 new recruits were officially sworn in as officers.

"I tend to be drawn to these types of jobs. I want to be the person that takes these roles. I'm willing to go out there and fight these people, and I'll continue to do so," new officer Daniel Bediako said.

Of the 43 graduates, 31 are high school alumni from Southern Nevada, demonstrating the department's commitment to building from within and placing local heroes back in their neighborhoods.

For many, it's a lifelong dream finally realized, and for Bediako and his mom, it's a moment they said they'll never forget.

Bediako, who has prior military experience,

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