Fifteen community children recently traded their school supplies and backpacks for a week as cadets at fire academy-like training at the Pinehurst Fire Department Junior Firefighter Academy.
The weeklong camp immersed children, ages 9 – 12, into life as a firefighter. The daily routine included physical training, classroom sessions, demonstrations, and hands-on activities.
Before successfully graduating from the academy, cadets received training in history and tradition of the fire service, fire prevention and safety, CPR/First Aid, search and rescue, and fire service tools and equipment.
2021 Village of Pinehurst Junior Firefighter Academy graduates: Liam Bainbridge, Ethan Brown, Steven Clemente, Wyatt Clemente, Ben Fisher, Jason Goodell, Sadie Kerns, Casey McBride, Rylan Mitchell, Lucas Sauer, Liam Scott, Lilea Scott, Dalton Thomas, Kara Thornsbury, and Brady Wortman.
Friends and family were invited to a graduation ceremony at the end of the camp to celebrate the completion of the Junior Firefighter Academy. Fire Chief Carlton Cole presented each cadet with a certificate.
“These cadets worked hard this week and had a unique adventure,” said Fire Chief Carlton Cole. “Your instructors and I are proud of everything you accomplished. We hope to see you all back through our doors one day to join our team.”
For more information on the Village of Pinehurst Fire Department, visit vopnc.org or call 910-295-5575.
Courtesy photos/Contributed.
