Wilmington Fire Department Welcomes 15 New Firefighters with Ceremony Full of Pride and Promise
August 2, 2024
In a ceremony brimming with pride and promise, the Wilmington Fire Department proudly welcomed 15 new firefighters into its ranks on Thursday evening. The Fire Department’s 43rd Recruit Class celebrated their graduation at Salesianum School, marking the culmination of a grueling 13-week academy. The recruits endured both physically and mentally demanding training, emerging not only with national certifications as Firefighter 1 and 2 but also as Emergency Medical Technicians.
Chief of Fire John Looney addressed the graduates during the 43rd Wilmington Fire Academy graduation ceremony Thursday, August 1, 2024; at Salesianum School in Wilmington, DE. Photo By Saquan Stimpson
Chief of Fire John Looney addressed the graduates, urging them to honor the legacy of the department’s seasoned members and to commit themselves to daily improvement. He emphasized the importance of continuous learning and dedication, encouraging the new firefighters to make the department better with every call they respond to.
Class president, Probationary Firefighter Xavier Gadson delivers remarks during the 43rd Wilmington Fire Academy graduation ceremony Thursday, August 1, 2024; at Salesianum School in Wilmington, DE. Photo By Saquan Stimpson
Recruit class president, Probationary Firefighter Xavier Gadson, echoed these sentiments, reminding his peers to embody the department’s mantra: “Dedication and Valor” in all aspects of their lives, on and off duty. Gadson expressed gratitude to the Fire Department Academy Staff for their rigorous training and to the instructors who helped mold each recruit.
Probationary Firefighter Brandon Harmon received the Physical Fitness Award during the 43rd Wilmington Fire Academy graduation ceremony Thursday, August 1, 2024; at Salesianum School in Wilmington, DE. Photo By Saquan Stimpson
Recognition was given to several outstanding recruits for their exceptional achievements. Probationary Firefighter Brandon Harmon received the Physical Fitness Award for his top scores in weekly tests. Probationary Firefighter Ariel Ramirez was honored with the Academic Award for achieving the highest class average. The Fire Chief’s Award went to Probationary Firefighter Anthony Perez for his leadership and commitment to becoming a Wilmington firefighter. Lastly, Probationary Firefighter Chad Knotts was presented with the Perseverance Award for overcoming numerous challenges throughout the academy.
The newly minted Wilmington firefighters are: Skyler Benasutti, Caleb Edgehill, Xavier Gadson, Brandon Harmon, Jacob Harvey, Alexander Humes, Matthew Klingensmith, Chad Knotts, Joshua Leavery, Christian Miller, Anthony Perez, Mark Powers, Lorraine Praeger, Ariel Ramirez, and Aidan Ryan. They now embark on a one-year probationary period, rotating through all the WFD stations, before receiving their permanent assignments. This new cohort stands ready to serve and protect the community, upholding the values of their esteemed predecessors.