Montgomery Fire Rescue swore in 18 new firefighters at a graduation ceremony for Recruit Class 2024 B in Montgomery City.

The recruits completed 28 weeks of academy training that began June 7, 2024; 24 recruits started the course and 18 graduated and took the oath of office. The ceremony included remarks from department leaders, a mayoral video message, presentation of certificates and three achievement awards for top EMT, top suppression and top trainee.

Assistant Fire Chief Ronnie H. Boseman Jr., division of training, opened formal remarks and thanked families and training staff for their support. "Because their hard work, dedication, and professionalism, we have 18 new firefighters that will begin the next step of their journey as a member of Montgomery Fire Rescue," Boseman said.

Fire Chief Mifford Jordan, who the department noted has served more than 40 years and became the citys 13th fire chief in December 2006, told graduates he was honored to welcome them. "As fire chief of this great city, I'm honored to welcome you to this wonderful occasion," Jordan said, and reviewed the departments recent accreditations and the role families play in supporting firefighters.

The Honorable Judge Milton J. Westry Sr. administered the oath of office. Judge Westry asked the recruits to raise their right hands and repeat the oath to support the U.S. Constitution, the Alabama Constitution and the laws and ordinances of the City of Montgomery and to "faithfully discharge the duties of a member of the Montgomery Fire Rescue." After the oath, the graduates were presented with certificates by representatives from the mayors office and department leadership, including Councilwoman Julie Beard, Fire Chief Mifford Jordan, Judge Westry, Chief of Staff Collier, Chief of Operations Gaunt and Chief Executive Officer Milam.

Awards presented at the ceremony included the top EMT award, which went to Robert C. L. Stewart; the top suppression award, given to Jacob D. Campbell; and the Robert W. Greer leadership/top trainee award, also presented to Jacob D. Campbell. The training staff said awards recognize recruits who maintained high course grades, passed required national or suppression exams on first attempt, and demonstrated leadership and class morale.

Graduate and class speaker Jacob D. Campbell addressed his classmates after the awards, saying the work "isn't just a job. It's a calling," and thanking instructors, family and fellow recruits for their support.

The ceremony organizers noted one recruit, Tristan M. Rawls, was not present because he was attending the funeral of a relative; attendees were asked to keep him and his family in their prayers. Assistant Chief Boseman closed the program by dismissing the class and directing graduates and families to a photograph area.

The event was largely ceremonial; no votes or policy actions were taken. The ceremony also included an invocation by Fire Chaplain Stanley Presley and a prerecorded message from the mayor.