Class Features First
Brother & Sister Combination in
NY Fire Dept. History
Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg
and Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta presided over a
graduation ceremony for 233 Probationary Firefighters. The
new firefighters, or “Probies,” have
successfully completed the rigorous 12-week training program
at the Fire Department (FDNY) Training Academy located on Randall’s
Island. Today’s class featured two sets of siblings,
including the first brother and sister combination in the history
of the FDNY. Several hundred friends and family members joined
the Mayor and Commissioner at a ceremony at Brooklyn College
to congratulate the first class of 2004.
“It gives me enormous pleasure and satisfaction
to welcome today’s graduating class of 233 men and women
into the ranks of the world’s greatest fire department,” said
Mayor Bloomberg. “These new firefighters join a department
whose members protect this City day in and day out, facing
new challenges and threats of terrorism with courage and professionalism.
I congratulate
our newest firefighters on becoming New York’s Bravest
and know they will serve the people of New York with honor
and dedication.”
“You have completed the first step in what
will become an enormously rewarding career and now enter the
ranks of a Department rich in history and tradition,” said
Commissioner Scoppetta. “With each response, you will
expand upon the foundation of knowledge and skills you have
received from your instructors at the Academy. Rely on that
foundation as you assume your role as the first line of defense
against the threats to our City.”
While in training at
the Fire Academy, the “Probies” learned
firefighting techniques such as basic engine and truck operations,
fire suppression and containment, hazardous materials training,
and terrorism awareness. The “Probies” will now
be assigned to firehouses throughout the City of New York,
where they will gain field experience under the guidance of
senior firefighters and officers. In keeping with tradition,
the class-donated money to a number of FDNY related charities.
Firefighters Christopher
and Lauren Smith graduated at today’s ceremony. They
are the first brother and sister combination to ever graduate
the Academy together, and to ever join the ranks of FDNY.
Their father Phillip is a 26-year veteran currently assigned
to Ladder Company 54 in the Bronx. Christopher will be heading
to Engine Company 42, Bronx, and Lauren will be assigned
to Engine Company 298, Queens.
Probationary Firefighter
Edward G. Dailey earned the honor of today’s class
Valedictorian, and Probationary Firefighter Joseph E. Pansini
was the class Salutatorian. The Physical Fitness Award was
given to Probationary Firefighter Harold Cargain.#
