BILLERICA — Chief Roy Frost is pleased to share that the Billerica Police Department is welcoming a U.S. Army veteran as the newest member of the department.

Officer John Eldridge graduated from the Massachusetts Police Training Commission’s Lynnfield Police Academy on Jan. 4. He was sworn in Wednesday by Town Clerk Donna McCoy.

Officer Eldridge is a lifelong Billerica resident whose father is retired Newton Police Sgt. Frank Eldridge. Officer Eldridge’s sister, Kristyna Eldridge, is a Billerica Police Dispatcher.

Officer Eldridge has served in the U.S. Army for 10 years, including six years on active duty and four years with the Massachusetts National Guard. He is a Staff Sergeant with the Army.

Officer Eldridge will deploy with the National Guard to the Middle East at the end of January as part of Operation Inherent Resolve.

Upon his return to Billerica, Officer Eldridge will enter a Field Training Program with a more experienced Billerica Officer before beginning to patrol on his own.

“Ever since I first saw my father in his police uniform, I’ve wanted to follow in his footsteps. If I can be even just half the officer he was I know I will make a positive difference in peoples lives,” said Officer Eldridge. “Growing up in Billerica I’ve known I’ve wanted to serve this community and help people. Now that I’ve finally joined Billerica Police I know I’ll be working with some of the best. It’s truly a dream come true to become a police officer. I want to have a positive impact on the Billerica community.”