They are New York's Finest on four legs.

Eight horses in the NYPD's mounted unit are ceremoniously renamed after fallen police officers, at a special graduation ceremony Thursday.

NY1's Clodagh McGowan filed the following report.

Meet the newest mounted officers of the NYPD. They're known as the 10-foot cops. The horseback-riding officers can be seen for blocks and that height advantage gives them an upper hand in fighting crime, as well as in providing crowd and traffic control

The mounted unit has a rich history. It was formed in 1858 and traces its roots back to the United States Cavalry.

"Since that time, it has become one of the most iconic symbols of the NYPD. Recognized around the world," said NYPD Chief of Department, Terence Monahan.

Eight police officers and one sergeant graduated Thursday after training three months with their four-legged companions

For the first time in nearly two decades, horses were named after officers killed in the line of duty. For Raymond Moore, a retired sergeant and the father of fallen Detective Brian Moore, naming a horse "Bri's Legacy" is a fitting tribute to his son.

"I find it ironic that the horse is the biggest horse that's graduating. And Brian was a big boy. He loved horses and he had a dog named Smokey. He was a real animal lover and it's another way to remember my son," said Moore.

It's been almost 11 years since 23 year-old Russel Timoshenko was gunned down during a car-stop in Brooklyn. His mother calls it an honor that this horse will now be called "Rusti."

"Even though he's not with us anymore physically, I know his name is going to be always protecting New York City, makes it better and safer," said Tatayana Timoshenko, Russel Timoshenko's mother.

Rafael Ramos and his partner Wenjian Liu were ambushed three and a half years ago, as they sat in their parked patrol car in Brooklyn.

Ramos' widow, Maritza says not a day goes by that she does not think of her husband but meeting "Ralphy" put a smile on her face.

"Cause that's a good looking horse and he was a good looking guy," said Ramos.