The Cheyenne Police Department welcomed a new officer to its ranks Monday.

Marcus Hairston-Payton was sworn in during a ceremony at the Cheyenne Public Safety Center.

Originally from Philadelphia, the Air Force veteran grew up in a police and military family which motivated his decision to serve.

"My stepfather is a highly decorated police officer in South Carolina, and I want to follow his footsteps in every way I can," said Hairston-Payton.

"Now that I’m finishing serving my country, it’s an honor to serve and protect my community," he added.

Hairston-Payton is the third officer to be sworn in this year. He will now attend the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy in Douglas.

Meet the Four-Legged Heroes of the Cheyenne Police Department

They may not be able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, but make no bones about it, police dogs play a vital role in the fight against crime.

In many situations, they're the first ones to put their lives on the line to protect their human partners, proving that not all heroes wear capes, some wear fur coats.

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