On August 15th, Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R) held a graduation ceremony for Truck 2 graduates at our Training Academy. This class included ten new firefighters who successfully completed PF&R’sTraining Academy, worked under the close supervision of officers and firefighters at Station 2, and are now full-fledged firefighters.

In addition to receiving their badges, the graduating class received their own turnouts and traded in their black helmets (worn by trainees) for yellow helmets (worn by firefighters).

Station 2 Training Captain Budge, Training & Safety Deputy Chief Kaiel, and Fire Chief Janssens delivered the commencement address, acknowledging the fact that passing PF&R’sTraining Academy is difficult for both firefighters and their families.  As such, both thanked the graduates for their dedication and commitment, and their family members who supported them throughout the past year.  The ceremony was followed by cookies, coffee, and photos with the new firefighters.

A big congratulations to Firefighters Brent Chopp, Arik Tronnes, Stephen Kuhl, Rian Fitzpatrick, Brian Fosmark, Wilson Stark, Todd Thawley, Austin Van Avery, Kyle Uhrig, and Aina Kohler!