Orange Beach Welcomes New Firefighters

Orange Beach Welcomes New Firefighters
After three months of training, 24 written tests and over 70 skills evaluations, the Orange Beach Fire Department Firefighter I/II Recruit School Class of 2018 graduated on November 14. The 13 individuals, ranging in age from 18 to 50, took to the stage at the Orange Beach Event Center as recruits and stepped down as sworn firefighters, with six representing Orange Beach Fire Rescue, five with Prichard Fire Department, one with Atmore Fire Department and one with Gulf Shores Fire Rescue. The class fulfilled all of the requirements set forth by the Alabama Fire College and Personnel Standards Commission. The ceremony included the badge pinning by the graduates’ family members and loved ones; a certificate ceremony led by Assistant Chief of Training Kevin Lanford; and the oath of office given by Orange Beach Fire Chief Justin Pearce. City Administrator Ken Grimes welcomed the Class of 2018 and retired Tuscaloosa Fire Chief A.J. Martin gave the graduation address. Also in attendance was Foley Fire Chief Joey Darby, who serves as vice chairman of the Alabama Fire College. Pictured: The graduates include the following: Cole Akerman, Beau Cecchi, Cole Fincher, Hunter Gunn, David Guy William Holder, Peter Kreamer, Brett Lesinger Brett Long, Kevin McCormick, Daniel Nicholson, Owen Shivers, Scott Smothers. A special academic award was earned by Brett Lesinger and a leadership award was earned by Scott Smothers.