Friends and families of eight men were at the Lincoln County Courthouse to watch Sheriff Roby Bowe swear in his newest crop of reserve deputies.

Five men from Libby and three from Eureka took oaths to defend the law in the limited role they’ll be playing.

That role, volunteer only, is to serve as extra security at events like games, or at crime scenes. They do have arrest abilities, but make up more of an ancillary role.

Sheriff’s Deputy Bo Pitman said the training these men go through is no joke.

“There are 88 hours of training for someone to become a reserve deputy,” he said. “There is a requirement for 30 hours of firearm training. There are defensive tactics, first aid training and patrol procedures. They’ve gone through almost all of it.”

The men from Libby, Cody Ercanbrack, Ron Buckner, Gene King, Jason Fosgate and John Hyslop, joined Dana Smith, Michael Hansen and Cody White from Eureka.

The eight bring up the total number of reserve deputies to 12.

For Bowe, the interest in law enforcement is a welcome sight.

“We’re super excited about having them on board,” Bowe said. “They have committed their own time and effort. The extra help is always nice.”

Some of the reservists may ride with active deputies or help fill gaps in vacation schedules.

Bowe said when hiring new deputies, he will be looking closely at the ranks of his reserve officers.

They have shown interest in law enforcement and have gone through basic training, making them prime candidates.