Upper Darby police welcome five new faces to the team

The Upper Darby Police Department is growing. In fact, just ahead of the holidays, the department welcomed its newest officers, five from the most recent Academy graduation.

“Please join me in congratulating the five newest Upper Darby Police Officers,” said a post from the department recently shared on social media. “They successfully graduated from the Delaware County Municipal Academy. We are proud of their hard work and dedication and look forward to them joining our ranks.”

The five new officers were officially sworn in by Upper Darby Mayor Ed Brown just days after graduation. 

“When you see them in our community, please congratulate them and welcome them,” said the post. “As always, we appreciate your continued support and cooperation.”

The online community also thanked these new officers for joining the force of area first responders. Even former police officers wished them congratulations.

“Congratulations to all you guys and gals wishing you the best to stay safe and use your head,” wrote Edward J. Flood in the comments of the Facebook post. “I remember when I was sworn in in 1957 there were 13 of us, and I remember walking 69th Street up and down in a suit coat with a gun and holster outside my suit coat. It was quite different.”

Other responders focused on the variety of genders represented in the new recruits.

“Congrats to all, and yea more female officers!” wrote Jessica Nataro. “It’s so great to see women represented in a position like this!”

Still more community members wished the new officers well, especially focused on their safety.

“Welcome all and congratulations to all our men and women in blue,” wrote Carol Stockard Hassinger. “Please be extra careful out there, we want you all to go home safely to your loved ones too! Thank you for being so brave!”