The Albany Police Department welcomed six new members on Monday.

The recruits took the oath at a ceremony at City Hall. Mayor Kathy Sheehan told the officers that they’re joining a department that aims to make Albany the safest city in America. Police Chief Eric Hawkins said the new recruits will be in the academy for the next 5 or 6 months and then be on patrol by the middle of net year.

The young men are excited to join the team, according to Hawkins.

“They’re committed to this city. They know the challenges that law enforcement is facing. They know the challenges that the city of Albany is facing and they want to be a part of that,” he said.