ACTING Chief Fire, Officer Joseph Joseph, officially welcomed forty new firefighters to the Saint Lucia Fire Service during its recent 23rd graduation ceremony.
The newcomers graduated last week Friday at the Phillip Marcellin Grounds in Vieux Fort amidst much pomp and ceremony.
Joseph described the new firefighters as a welcomed complement to the fire service at a time when there is need for increased manpower. He also expressed his confidence in their ability to hit the ground running after a very rigorous four months of training.
“The manpower issue in the department is a dire one and your presence will undoubtedly make a positive difference,” he told the new fire officers. “Firefighters at all eight stations eagerly await the new breath of fresh air and your unconditional support in carrying out the department’s functions.”
Joseph also reminded the new class that their profession may not make them financially wealthy but will nonetheless make them assets to the nation.
“If your reason for becoming a firefighter is strictly economic, that is, only to have a day job where you can earn a salary, then you may need to consider another career,” he said. “The reality is you have chosen a profession where your services are usually required during difficult times, when things aren’t going well or don’t go right.”
He also admonished them to remember at all times that the job was about teamwork and collaborative responses.
The graduation was conducted under the theme: “With perseverance and discipline, excellence is achieved”.