Archives of the Mayor's Press Office

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Wednesday, November 3, 1999

Release #439-99

Contact: Sunny Mindel/Matthew Higgins (212) 788-2958
Michael Regan, FDNY (718) 999-2025



MAYOR GIULIANI JOINS FIRE COMMISSIONER THOMAS VON ESSEN AT GRADUATION CEREMONY FOR 119 PROBATIONARY FIREFIGHTERS

Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani today joined Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen at a graduation ceremony for 119 Probationary Firefighters. The new Firefighters -- or "Probys," as they are often called -- have successfully completed a rigorous 13-week training program that has prepared them for the many challenges they will face in their new careers. The graduation ceremony took place at New York Technical College in Brooklyn.

"I am confident that in the course of their careers, this new class of highly skilled Firefighters will repeatedly demonstrate their selfless dedication and their willingness to put their lives on the line to help those in need," the Mayor said. "These 119 Probationary Firefighters are joining the Department in its prime, at a time when the number of fire-related fatalities has been brought down to historic lows. Over the last six years, the Department has continued to build upon its proud history of excellence, setting new standards in virtually every area of achievement. And with the help of these brave individuals who graduate today, that tradition of excellence will endure long into the future."

Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen said, "Today we welcome 119 new members to the family of the New York City Fire Department. By completing the rigorous training program, they have already demonstrated their commitment to the City of New York and their chosen profession. Throughout their careers, they will help the Fire Department do what it has always done best - protect the lives and property of all New Yorkers."

Also included in the ceremony was the presentation of several awards for academic achievements, including:

In keeping with tradition, Firefighter Donald A. Zink presented a check to hero Fire Lieutenant Timothy Stackpole to be donated in the name of the graduating class to the New York Firefighters Burn Center.



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