The FDNY to Graduate Last Class of Probationary Firefighters Before The 25th Anniversary of September 11

July 1, 2026

The Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore will preside over a graduation ceremony for 235 Probationary Firefighters on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Christian Cultural Center – 12020 Flatlands Avenue, Brooklyn. The ceremony can be viewed live on the Department’s website at www.nyc.gov/FDNY or HERE. 

This new class of Probationary Firefighters includes members who passed a promotional exam to the rank of Firefighter after previously serving as Officers, Paramedics, Fire Protection Inspectors, Dispatchers, and Emergency Medical Technicians with the FDNY. The class includes seven women and 10 veterans from the Army, Army National Guard, and the United States Marine Corps. Also in the class are Probationary Firefighter Joseph J. Downey, grandson of Deputy Chief Raymond Downey, and Probationary Firefighter Robert S. Palmer, nephew of Battalion Chief Orio Palmer, killed on September 11, 2001. 

Over 18 weeks at the FDNY Training Academy, the probies trained in all aspects of Firefighting: fire suppression and medical response, hazardous materials, collapse and confined space rescue training, auto extrication, building inspections and procedures for engine and ladder operations. 

These Probationary Firefighters will be assigned to firehouses throughout the city, where they will gain field experience under the guidance of senior firefighters and officers. 

WHO: FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore, Chief of Department John Esposito, FDNY Officials, Probationary Firefighters, and their families.
  
WHERE: Christian Cultural Center - 12020 Flatlands Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11207
    
WHEN: Thursday, July 2 – 10:00 a.m.  

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