FOR
IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 29, 2002 PR-097-02 www.nyc.gov |
MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG AND FIRE COMMISSIONER
NICHOLAS SCOPPETTA SWEAR IN 319 PROBATIONARY FIREFIGHTERS
Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta today presided at the swearing-in ceremony for 319 probationary firefighters at the Fire Training Academy on Randalls Island. The new firefighters, or "probies," are the third class of firefighters to join the FDNY since September 11th, which took the lives of 343 members of the Fire Department. The FDNY has sworn in over 900 probationary firefighters since the attack.
"We will never be able to replace the 343 firefighters we lost on September 11th in experience, talent, or in our hearts," Mayor Bloomberg said. "But we may honor their service by keeping New York the safest City in the world. I thank these recruits for choosing to contribute to the ongoing process of rebuilding the FDNY in both its ranks and spirit."
"The probationary firefighters being sworn in today are truly the future of this Department," Commissioner Scoppetta said. "With their determination and conviction we will move forward as we rebuild the department and continue to thrive as the greatest fire department in the world."
Probationary firefighters
spend 25 weeks in training. "Probies" spend the first eight
weeks at the Academy, where they learn basic firefighting techniques,
including fire suppression and containment, and basic engine and truck
operations. During the following 14 weeks, they receive hands-on training
from experienced fire officers and firefighters. Prior to graduating,
the probationary firefighters returns to the Academy for three more
weeks of training. Upon graduation, the new firefighters are assigned
to firehouses throughout New York City for a one-year period.
www.nyc.gov
Contact: | Edward
Skyler / Jerry Russo (212) 788-2958 |
Francis
X. Gribbon, FDNY (718) 999-2056 |