The Metropolitan Transportation Authority Police Department welcomed new furry members to their team on Friday.

The class of 2020 Canine Detection Unit officially graduated after 28 weeks of training. Dozens gathered to watch each canine graduate one by one

They can now each successfully sniff out explosives, adding another set of eyes, ears, and noses to commuters hubs and subway stations.

Lt. Bill Finucane tells News 12 that the canines play a crucial role in counterterrorism efforts, especially in a city as fast-paced as New York.

"Trains have to keep on moving. People want to get home. They want to get to work and they want to get home. These dogs keep the railroads going, they keep everything going," said Finucane.

Each dog was awarded a shield on their collar and was named in memory of a fallen first responder. They will bravely be patrolling inside and outside New York City, just as the first responders for whom they were named did each day.

MTA officers tell News 12 the 28 weeks of training with their canines was rewarding and their hope is that with more canines around, commuters will feel safer.