PALMER PARK, Md. (WUSA) – For some kids, having a police officer for a parent is probably intimidating. But for three young women in Prince George's County, it was inspiring.
LaVonne Dickerson was just three years old when her mother graduated from the Prince George's County Police Academy.
"It really influenced me growing up," said Dickerson. "I was like, 'Wow! She's doing that? I want to do that.' "
Twenty years later, Dickerson did just that. In fact, her mother, now Corporal Loretta Williams, pinned her badge on Graduation Day last May. The two became the first African-American, mother-daughter duo in Prince George's County Police History.
"I'm still surprised that she's a police officer, but I'm very proud," said Cpl. Williams.
The Dickerson-Williams mother-daughter team is one of three in the Prince George's County Police Department. They don't normally work together day-to-day. Department policy separates family members while on duty. But after work, they're not just moms. They're mentors.
"It's nice. You always have someone to confide in. Am I doing this right? What would you do if you would have done it?" said Officer Alicia Jernigan.
"She actually does a very good job on her own. I really don't think I have much advice to give her," said her mother, Lieutenant Sandi Jernigan.
"I am definitely very proud of her, but I still have that worry in my heart," said Lieutenant Stephanie Frankenfield of daughter, Officer Rebecca Frankenfield.
With Mother's Day less than a week away, 9NEWS Now asked the daughters if they had any special Mother's Day message.
"I'm proud of you. You're my idol," said Officer Jernigan to her mom.
"I'm proud of her and I love her a lot. She is definitely an inspiration in the police department, something to look up to," said Officer Frankenfield.
"I appreciate everything that she's done for me, the guidance that she gives me. The knowledge that she provided me with growing up. And she's my best friend!" said Dickerson.