Fire Service welcomes 8 new firefighters
Essex County Fire and Rescue Service has welcomed eight wholetime firefighters during a dedicated ceremony.
The Service’s new recruits were welcomed into the Service by Deputy Chief Fire Officer Rick Hylton and Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex Roger Hirst.
Their Station Managers and proud families and friends watched their loved ones carry out a road traffic collision and a ladder drill to show their new skills.
Each firefighter was then presented with a congratulatory certificate.
The ceremony was also live streamed to family, friends and colleagues across the Fire Service.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Rick Hylton said:
“We are always proud of our new recruits, and today is no exception. Our passing out parade allows us to take the time to watch on, recognise and celebrate the magnificent achievements of our newest squad of firefighters, your loved ones, and our colleagues.
“Each and every one of you has done something very special. You have become Essex firefighters, you have put yourselves forward to serve others, and put the needs of your communities before your own. To reduce risks and save lives. And I would like to thank you for making that choice.
“Today, we celebrate an important milestone. Our newest trainee firefighters are passing out from basic training to take up their duties as firefighters and will be joining their fire stations in the coming weeks. To get to this point, has taken tremendous dedication and application.”
Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex Roger Hirst said:
“I strongly commend you all for serving your communities which is really very special and very brave. Thank you to your loved ones for their support while you do this.
“The public really value you, admire you and support you. We know there’s a lot of work you do around preventing incidents and working to keep people safe in their homes and you should be very proud.”
The recruits completed 15 weeks of intensive training like no other. Juggling the struggles and restrictions of the Covid-19 pandemic, alongside their training at facilities across the county, they have learned the practical and technical skills needed to meet the demands of a modern day firefighter.
Firefighter Devon Holt was also presented with a special award, and was recognised for her determination and professionalism, and great teamwork during the course.
The new recruits will be joining Brentwood, Chelmsford, Colchester, Harlow, Rayleigh Weir and Southend Fire Stations.
Page last updated 10 December, 2021