The fire service community will soon welcome 21 new members as Doña Ana Fire Rescue (DAFR) prepares for the graduation of its 6th class of cadets. The ceremony, open to the public, will honor the completion of their intensive training on Friday, March 28 at 2 p.m., according to Doña Ana County. It's set to take place at the auditorium of Doña Ana Community College East Mesa campus.
Diving headfirst into a 24-week academy, the cadets underwent a comprehensive training program. They emerged with certifications in Hazmat Awareness and Operations, Emergency Vehicle Driving, Vehicle Extrication, and Wildland Firefighting, and completed Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training. After they step from the stage, bearing diplomas, the freshly minted firefighters face a one-year probation period, where theory meets practice in the field.
The graduates hail from diverse backgrounds, yet share the common ambition to serve and protect. The roster includes Jesus Acosta, Gabriel Alderete, Gabriel Benitez, Daniel Blanco, German Cisneros, Jorge Garcia, Eriberto Gutierrez, Jose Martinez, Andrew McCleary, Tyce McPherson, Riley Milton, Mark Morales, Juan Regalado, Gabriel Rodriguez, Jaime Rodriguez, Andrae Satcher, Roland Semore, Alejandro Sifuentes, Lorenzo Soliz, Raymond Urenda and Kyle Vereen.
DAFR's investment in rigorous training underscores its commitment to community safety and emergency preparedness. The cadets' transition from novices to full-fledged members of the fire and rescue service marks, not only a personal achieving milestone, but also reinforces the frontline ranks dedicated to public service and crisis response. With the addition of these new graduates, DAFR continues to enhance its operational capabilities, ensuring that when disaster strikes, a well-prepared team stands ready to answer the call.
