FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore welcomes third class of 2025 probationary firefighters to the Department's ranks

February 11, 2026

The FDNY welcomed its third class of 2025 probationary firefighters at a graduation ceremony on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, at the Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn.

"When you walk out of those doors today, the world will look at you differently. When a New Yorker sees the FDNY patch on your shoulder, they don't see a stranger. They see hope. They see the person who is going to make the worst day of their life OK again," FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore said during her remarks to the graduates. "You are the one to go in when everyone else is coming out. You are the one to hold the line between this city and chaos. Carry that badge with the humility of a servant and the heart of a lion."

Chief of Department John Esposito said: "This job will challenge you physically, mentally and emotionally. But you will never face it by yourself. You are now part of the team—part of a family that stands together no matter what. Congratulations on earning your place. We are looking forward to the great things you will do."

Over the course of 18 weeks at the FDNY Fire Academy on Randall's Island, the probies trained in all aspects of firefighting, including fire suppression and medical response, hazardous materials, collapse and confined space rescues, auto extrication, building inspections and procedures for engine and ladder operations.

The probationary firefighters will be assigned to firehouses throughout New York City, where they will gain valuable field experience under the guidance of senior firefighters and officers.