Fifteen weeks of hard work and intensive training culminate in the graduation of the Madison Fire Department’s Recruit Class 5 this Friday, 2:00 p.m., at the Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center (1 John Nolen Drive).
 
Since October 3, 2016, the class challenged itself physically and academically to achieve the highest-level firefighter certification available in the State of Wisconsin. Their journey took them through the basics of firefighting, EMT training, Hazardous Material Operations training, rope rescue deployment, vehicle extrication, elevator entrapment, and fire prevention.
 
The curriculum also included community service. Recruits visited the American Family Children’s Hospital, served dinner at the Catholic Multicultural Center with Fire Fighters Local 311, and participated in the Marine Corps Toys for Tots holiday drive.
 
“This class has the character to provide a vital community service while maintaining the fundamental core values of the organization: Honesty, Integrity, Care, and Compassion,” said Fire Chief Steven Davis.
 
This year’s class of 18 competed against a pool of over 1,600 applicants to earn a place on the Madison Fire Department. Each recruit will be assigned to a Madison fire station to continue his or her education alongside experienced officers and fellow firefighters as they also respond to emergencies throughout the city.
 
Friday’s graduation ceremony can be streamed live online via Madison City Channel.