3 brothers graduate NYPD academy

NEW YORK (FOX 5 NEWS) - Protecting and serving apparently runs in the family. Three brothers are following in their father's footsteps by joining the NYPD. They are believed to be the first trio of brothers to graduate the New York City Police Academy at the same time. Stephen Favale, 24, and twins Alec Favale and John Favale, 22, were among 1,123 new officers to graduate from the academy on Tuesday. Their father, Deputy Inspector Anthony Favale, 52, is a 30-year veteran of the NYPD.

The brothers join their cousin and aunt, who are also in the department. the family thought maybe one of the boys, who grew up on Staten Island, would join the force, but not all of them.

"Johnny boy there, who has graduated with honors, he has my shield, my patrolmen's shield. He was destined for it," Anthony Favale said.

Their mom Stephanie knows the dangers that come with the job, but is still excited for her boys.

"I can't say enough about my children," Stephanie Favale said. "We are a very proud family."

Now they're ready for their first assignment: New Year's Eve in Times Square.

The three brothers will go their separate ways, serving in different precincts: Coney Island, Staten Island, and the West Village. They promise to live by their class motto, which is "Go forth to serve."