HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) – Six new firefighters who recently graduated from Recruit Class #12 of the Central Shenandoah Valley Regional Fire-Rescue Academy have joined the ranks of the Harrisonburg Fire Department.

The swearing-in ceremony took place August 22. Family and friends were invited to take part in a ceremony held at James Madison University’s Memorial Hall.

The following personnel completed the academy:

  • David Carl, originally from Catasauqua, Pa., will be assigned to Engine Company 2
  • Beckem Cole, originally from Pottstown, Pa., will be assigned to Engine Company 3
  • Chase Crosby, originally from Elizabethville, Pa., will be assigned to Tower Company 1
  • Ryan Johns, originally from Schuylkill Haven, Pa., will be assigned to Engine Company 1
  • Alexander Kreh, originally from Madison, Va., will be assigned to Engine Company 3
  • Robert Smith, originally from Hanover County, Va., will be assigned to Engine Company 2

Recruits obtained certifications for Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Hazardous Materials Awareness/Operations, Introduction to Technical Rescue Awareness, Passenger Vehicle Operations/Technician, Low Angle Rope Rescue Operations, Firefighter Rescue & Survival, Fire Service Elevator Rescue and Emergency Vehicle Operators Course (EVOC) Class I/II/III during the academy. More training will take place now that the firefighters have been assigned to their stations.

“We are deeply grateful for the partnership with our regional fire departments,” Fire Chief Matthew Tobia said of the fire-rescue academy in a release. “Our recruit training staff, led by Captain Larry Bennington, is second to none in providing these new firefighters with the essential skills and, more importantly, commitment to living our core values. This educational experience will form the foundation for their entire careers.”

This is the 12th academy class to graduate since the regional program began in 2020.