“It was challenging, very challenging, not only mentally, but obviously physically,” he added. “You just kind of have to think about coming back one day at a time, making it from meal to meal, and eventually the weeks go by.”
Bishop chose the Bureau of Narcotics with a specific mission in mind.
“I’m very interested in getting drugs off the streets and combating narcotics and drug trafficking organizations,” he said.
His mother, Saundra Bishop, watched proudly as her son crossed the stage.
“All of those young men and women worked really hard to achieve what they earned,” she noted. “Just really proud, proud of them all.”
She also encouraged the public to support law enforcement officers.
“Support our law enforcement officers because they really do work hard and sacrifice a lot and they're out there to make things safer,” Bishop said.
The ceremony highlighted the family connections that continue to draw new generations into public service. Tindell pointed out that nine cadets in Class 70 had family ties to the department through parents, stepparents or siblings.
For Tim Posey of Okolona, watching his grandson James Thomas Jones graduate was an emotional moment.
“Just an immense pride, just really so proud of him,” Posey shared. “We're just really proud of him and proud of the man he's become.”
The sense of pride extended beyond parents and grandparents.
Cedrick Fletcher of Puckett attended the ceremony to celebrate his identical twin brother, LaCedrick Fletcher, one of the graduates.
“That's my identical twin brother, my ride or die right there,” Fletcher said. “We did everything together, played football together, everything. So I'm just proud of the moment for him,” he said.
Fletcher said the 16-week academy was the longest the brothers had been apart.
“I'm proud of him,” Fletcher added. “Stay strong, stay focused, and God always got him.”
For Elaina Boyle of Union, watching her younger brother Tyler Bearden graduate was another example of a family tradition of service.
“My family's been in military and law enforcement for years and generations, so it was such a privilege to be here today,” Boyle remarked.
“I am so proud of him, and I'm so proud that I got to be here today to join in celebration.”
Boyle said she hopes others considering a career in law enforcement will embrace the opportunity.
“It's such a great honor, first and foremost, to be able to serve,” she said. “I say go for it. Give it your all, and I think you'll do great.”
During the ceremony, Josh Buford, platoon leader and class president, reflected on the transformation members of Class 70 experienced throughout training.
“As I reflect on this journey, what I will remember the most is transformations. Every single cadet in this class has been changed, not just physically, but mentally and spiritually,” Buford said.
Now, with training behind them and badges in hand, the graduates of Cadet Class 70 begin the next chapter of their careers by serving communities across Mississippi and joining a tradition of public service that spans nearly nine decades.
