Hundreds of probationary FDNY firefighters graduate at ceremony in Brooklyn
NEW YORK -- An FDNY graduation ceremony was held Wednesday in Brooklyn for 300 new probationary firefighters. Officials said the diverse class also includes legacy children of 9/11 responders who were inspired to serve.
Jerome Nedd Jr. of Brooklyn is one of 298 so called "probies" to join the ranks of New York's Bravest. On Sept. 11, firefighters tried to rescue his father, who was working as a chef in the north tower of the World Trade Center.
"My father died on 911. It was a decision for me because firefighters went to that building to try to get him out. Those brave heroes that died in that building, I wanted to help people as well," the 33-year-old said.
Two graduating members of the class are legacy children of 9/11 responders. They were honored by FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh.
"You've joined for different reasons, some, like Firefighter Brian Sullivan, whose father, Lt. Christopher Sullivan, was killed on Sept. 11, or Firefighter Henry Hinton, whose father died from World Trade Center-related cancer," Kavanagh said.
For 18 weeks they trained in all aspects of firefighting as well as medical training, hazardous response, and emergency rescue.
The class also includes 34 veterans.
Patrick Williamson, from the Long Island town of Bayport, served with the Air National Guard for 16 years. The 35-year-old recalled the exact moment he decided to become firefighter.
"I can tell you March 15, 2018. I was deployed in Iraq and I lost seven members of my unit. Two of them were FDNY firemen," Williamson said. "I decided I needed to carry that name on and carry that tradition. Our motto, is, 'These things we do so others may live.'"
Amber Villegas of Queens is one of 10 women to graduate this year. The 29-year-old also comes from a family of service, both NYPD and FBI.
"I have a lot of family in uniform. I'm grateful to be able to join them [in] active civil service," Villegas said. "I am the first FDNY member, also the first female FDNY member in our family."
Fire officials said 50% of this class is made up of people of color.
"Representation is important. You go out, you see people like you, you feel more comfortable," Nedd said.
Now, Nedd said, the real work begins. The probationary period is 18 months before they officially receive the title "Firefighter."