Eldora Barbe Gilchrist of Center graduated from the East Texas Police Academy July 3, ranking second in her class. After 10 weeks of intensive law enforcement training, Gilchrist received a peace officer certification certificate along with 22 other students. In July of 1986, Gilchrist was named valedictorian in a class of 19 students at the Security Institute of Beaumont. In addition, she earned a lifetime commission from the State of Texas as correctional officer in jail procedures. She is employed by East Texas Security and Investigation owned by Charles Martin of Center and has acquired almost 500 hours of law enforcement and security training in the past year and a half.Gilchrist extends a special thank you to Sheriff N.L. Tindall of San Augustine County for his sponsorship making it possible for her to attend the academy. She also extends appreciation to Martin for his encouragement and confidence in her ability. Most of all, she says she thanks her husband, Dickie.“Without his support and backing me 100 percent in my endeavors, none of these achievements would have been possible,” she stated.