Oxford, AL – In a ceremony filled with pride and celebration, seven new firefighters received their state certification on Friday, Sept. 6, 2024. The graduation, held at Brookside Baptist Church, marked the conclusion of the Alabama Fire College Firefighter Bridge Program, a six-week course that allows volunteer firefighters to earn state certification. Over 70 friends, family members, and future colleagues were in attendance to witness the milestone.
The Alabama Fire College (AFC) permits this special training to be held at local fire departments, with the Oxford Fire Department hosting the program at its Lynn Elliott Fire Station and Training Center. The new firefighters who completed the program and represented their respective departments were:
- Martin Alvarez (Oxford)
- Anthony Bilskie (Prichard)
- Johnathan Brewer (Oxford)
- Janzy Garcia Diaz (Oxford)
- Jaylon Dulaney (Eastaboga)
- Kevin Morrissey (Oxford)
- Dallas Smith (Jemison)
Chief Gary Sparks noted that five of the seven graduates had previously attended Oxford High School’s Fire Science Program. Through that program, seniors can earn volunteer certification, CPR training, Hazmat certification, and prepare for advanced levels of training and education.
Each graduate was pinned by a family member before taking the oath of office, administered by Alabama Fire College Executive Director Matt Russell.
“Some people say it’s easy to be a firefighter,” said Oxford Mayor Alton Craft during the ceremony. “I challenge anybody to put on that suit in 100-degree weather, go into that training building, and last three minutes. You have to be dedicated to do that.”
Class President Dallas Smith, representing his fellow graduates, offered heartfelt thanks to their families, instructors, and supporters. “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 also recognized their instructors—Captain Brandon Slick, Firefighter Adam Johnson, and Firefighter Max Cupp—for their guidance and mentorship.
Reflecting on the journey of the six-week program, Smith shared, “There have been tears shed and sweat poured, doubts and fears unlocked, good times and bad. But as we stand here before you as graduates, we can say without hesitation that it was entirely worth it.”
He closed his speech by emphasizing the bond that had formed between the classmates. “That’s what the brotherhood of the fire service is about. I am proud to call you ‘brothers.’”
The event was a proud moment not only for the new firefighters but also for their families and communities, as they begin their careers serving and protecting the public.
Photos Courtesy of the City of Oxford
