New NYPD K9 Class Graduates; Many Are Named For Fallen Officers
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The NYPD held a special graduation Tuesday, for a new class of highly-trained canines that will help keep the city safe.
As CBS2's Meg Baker reported, some of the dogs will carry on an important legacy.
The new members of the NYPD marched into the College Point Police Academy in Queens Tuesday.
"One of the most important elements of policing is your partner," said Police Commissioner Bill Bratton. "It's not too often, however, that you get to name your partner."
"A big day -- a lot to get the dogs prepared for this," said Detective Richard Geraci.
CBS2's Baker met one dog named Cowboy, who is one of 17 dogs who graduated Tuesday. Twelve of them are named for fallen officers.
One will be named Raff, after Officer Patrick Rafferty from the 67th Precinct.
Honoring officers killed in the line of duty is a tradition of the Transit Bureau K9 Unit.
"It means a lot to the different officers that represent their families," said Detective Wayne Rothchild.
The partners trained for 10 to 16 weeks in patrol and explosives.
"Dogs are very important for counterterrorism and safety of the public," Geraci said.
And the dogs and their officers make up a true team.
"The bond between K9 and K9 handler is extraordinary," said Sgt. Randy Brenner. "It is one of the strongest bonds between human and animal that exists anywhere."
The officers say now, every time they are asked what their dogs' names are, they will get to tell the story of a hero police officer.
