SHERIFF BACA AWARDS DIPLOMAS TO EXPLORER CLASS #68
Graduation ceremonies were held on Saturday, June 8, 2002, at the Sheriff's Training Academy and Regional Services (STARS) Center in Whittier for Explorer Class #68. In awarding diplomas to the 145 young men and women, Sheriff Lee Baca stated, "I am extremely proud of these young men and women for displaying the dedication it takes to complete this training program. The many hours of volunteer work these Explorers provide will benefit and strengthen the relationship between the agencies and the communities they serve."
Along with graduates from the Sheriff's Department, Explorers from the following law enforcement agencies also received certificates: Los Angeles County Office of Public Safety Police, City of Norwalk Department of Public Safety, United States Customs Service, University of Southern California Department of Public Safety, and the Huntington Park, Monterey Park, San Fernando, and Santa Monica Police Departments.
This Explorer class was comprised of recruits who attended the North Academy in La Crescenta, the South Academy in Whittier, the Antelope Valley Academy in Palmdale, the Avalon Academy on the island of Catalina, and the Southwest Academy in Lynwood. Five members of the class were named as Honor Recruits: Julio Vargas, Liliana Madrid, David Campbell, Julia Clark, and Gabriel Estrada. Each honor recruit received a plaque from the Boy Scouts of America, a scroll from Sheriff Baca, and a check for $100. Four of the checks were donated by KTLA Television and the fifth was donated by the Antelope Valley Sheriff's Boosters.
Mr. Ray Considine, a public speaker who specializes in motivation, delivered the keynote address. During his remarks he stated, "Remember, the exceptional people do the ordinary things an extraordinary number of times. You are now in that exceptional group."
The Law Enforcement Explorer Program is open to all young men and women between the ages of 15 and 21. Interested individuals may contact their local police department or nearest Sheriff's Station for further information.
SHB-44A-02
June 10, 2002
Photos available upon request.