Recruit School #14

photo from Roanoke Fire / EMS Face Book page

The Roanoke Regional Training Academy graduated Recruit Class #14 this past Friday (July 8, 2011).

The class began with 22 perspective new hires for Roanoke City and County. The City of Salem did not have any new hires this time.

20 members made it through the 16 week academy to graduate on Friday.

The academy consists of courses such as EMT-B, EVOC,  Firefighter I & II, Hazmat, Rope, Trench and Vehicle Rescue. The recruits receive extensive hands on training throughout the academy and are instructed by members from the City, County and Salem Departments.

Photo by Mike Overacker (Roanokefirefighters.com)

Congratulations to the following Cadets ….

Roanoke Fire / EMS :  Randy Armbrister, Matthew Furrow, Nathan Joachim, Peter Mathiesson, Alex McKinney, Matthew Moomey, Andrew Murray, Frederick Murray, Rashad Myers, Aaron Parker, Jacob Parry, James Richards, Shawn Sloane, Keith Snead, Thesalomius Washington, Andrew Watkins.

Roanoke County Fire / Rescue: Kelly Stoots, Denise Teehan, Nick Schmitt, Charles Layman.

Recruit Randy Armbrister received the Chris Brown Character award. Denise Teehan received the Leadership award, Nathan Joachim lead the class in academics, Nick Schmitt received the physical fitness award and Charles Layman served as class President.

I missed the graduation ceromony but the Buckaroo and I was able to attend the after party. Our Union, IAFF Local-1132; hosted the event  for all the recruits,  their family, friends and guests. Brother JJ Price and Sister Becky Smith brought in the cooker and had the entire block smelling like hamburgers and hot dogs. Our Women’s Auxiliary  was also on hand with plenty of sides and even one of those blow up, jumpy, slide  things for the kids!  Everyone had a BLAST! Here are some pics …

See  MORE PHOTOS by Lt. Mike Overacker (Retired) over at Roanoke Firefighters.com

Thanks to everyone who helped make the evening possible. Congratulations and good luck to all the new Rookies … may you all have long and safe careers!

Check back later and I’ll tell ya all about our new Rookie here at #13-C.

See ya then but until … stay safe and in house!

Captain Wines