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Seven new firefighters received their state certification on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024, during graduation ceremonies for the Alabama Fire College Firefighter Bridge Program held at Brookside Baptist Church.

An audience of more than 70 friends, family, and future colleagues were in attendance.

The Bridge Program allows volunteer firefighters to earn their state certification during a six-week course. The AFC permits this special training to be done at and by the Oxford Fire Department using their facilities and team at the Lynn Elliott Fire Station and Training Center.

The new firefighters and the departments for whom they were volunteers are Martin Alvarez, Oxford; Anthony Bilskie, Prichard; Johnathan Brewer. Oxford; Janzy Garcia Diaz. Oxford; Jaylon Dulaney, Eastaboga; Kevin Morrissey, Oxford; and Dallas Smith, Jemison.

Chief Gary Sparks said five of the new firefighters had graduated from Oxford High School’s Fire Science Program, where seniors can earn volunteer certification, CPR training, Hazmat certification, and preparation for the next level of training and education.

Each of the graduates were pinned by a family member before they were given the oath of office by Matt Russell, Alabama Fire College executive director.

“Some people say it’s easy to be a firefighter,” said Mayor Alton Craft. “I challenge anybody to put on that suit in 100-degree weather, go into that training building, and last three minutes. I don’t know how they did it. You have to be dedicated to do that.”

Class President Dallas Smith thanked all those who helped provide the opportunity, including instructors Captain Brandon Slick, Firefighter Adam Johnson, and Firefighter Max Cupp.

“We want to especially thank our families for their support,” Smith said. “We know it’s been tough on you guys and we appreciate your sacrifice. Without you, none of us would be here.”

Smith said he recalled how the instructors told them, “This class will not be easy, but we promise it will be worth it.”

“There have been tears shed and sweat poured, doubts and fears unlocked, good times and bad,” he added. “But as we stand here before you as graduates, we can say without hesitation that it was entirely worth it.”

Smith spoke of how the classmates encouraged each other during the six-week term.

“That’s what the brotherhood of the fire service is about,” Smith said. “I am proud to call you ‘brothers.’”