MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG AND FIRE COMMISSIONER NICHOLAS SCOPPETTA PRESIDE OVER GRADUATION CEREMONY FOR 260 PROBATIONARY FIREFIGHTERS

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta today presided over a graduation ceremony for 260 Probationary Firefighters. The new Firefighters, or “Probies,” have successfully completed a rigorous 13-week training program at the Fire Academy on Randall’s Island that will prepare them for the many challenges that await them in their new career and they comprise the fifth class to graduate since September 11, 2001. Several hundreds of family members and friends of the graduating class joined the Mayor and Commissioner at the ceremony at Brooklyn College.

“After weeks of intense training, these new Firefighters are stepping into the frontlines of fire prevention and response, valiantly protecting the lives, homes, and businesses of the people of our City,” Mayor Bloomberg said. “The Fire Department’s newest class of Firefighters will perform the demanding and vital job of keeping New York the largest safe City in the nation while receiving the best preparation and equipment available. I am confident that today’s graduates will selflessly serve their fellow New Yorkers with the courage and professionalism that typifies the FDNY and I congratulate our newest Firefighters on joining New York’s Bravest.”

“The Probationary Firefighters graduating today have joined the ranks of the world’s most respected and admired fire department, rich in both tradition and pride,” Commissioner Scoppetta said. “Your enthusiasm and dedication, coupled with the training you have received, stands as the foundation which you will build upon throughout your entire career with FDNY.”

While at the Fire Academy, the “Probies” learned firefighting techniques such as basic engine and truck operation, as well as fire suppression and containment, and received Haz-Mat and Terror Awareness training. The new Firefighters will now be assigned to firehouses throughout the City to complete their one-year probationary period under the guidance of senior firefighters and officers. Firefighter James Cahill earned the honor of class valedictorian, and Firefighter Richard Quezner earned the honor of class salutatorian. Firefighter Gregory Leinz earned the Physical Fitness Award.

Contact: Jordan Barowitz / Jerry Russo (212) 788-2958
Francis X. Gribbon (FDNY) (718) 999-2056

No. 108

www.nyc.gov