13 Graduates Complete Volusia County Firefighter Training

13 new firefighters are embarking on their careers with Volusia County Fire Rescue, the county government announced last week. The VCFR's New Hire Academy graduating class received their helmets and badges in a ceremony on Friday. "There's a lot of meaning behind the helmets, badges, and uniforms these firefighters received today because they represent the commitment that comes with this profession," said Volusia County Fire Chief Joe King in a statement Friday. "Tomorrow, they'll walk into their stations as members of our team, ready to learn from the experienced firefighters beside them and answer the call when our residents need them. We're proud of what they've accomplished and even more excited about what lies ahead." The graduates were surrounded by their friends, family, and new colleagues on Friday as they graduated academy training. Saturday marked the first day of the new firefighters reporting to their respective stations for duty. Training at the Volusia County Fire Rescue New Hire Academy entails a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training, the county government says. Trainees become familiar with the equipment, procedures, and standards they'll encounter as they work on the front lines of emergency services in Volusia County.