The Camden County Board of Commissioners is pleased to announce that the members of Recruit Class 2022-13 and 2023-15 have completed their Basic Firefighter requirements. Matthew Conn, Ashlie Fagen, Braeden Graves, Alexander Lawrence, Kelly Polley, Ashton Sweatt, Nathaniel Tanner, Grant West, Stephen Maladrino, Areana McGlocking, Jason Padgett, and Kenneth Pelzer were recognized at a graduation ceremony held earlier this week.
In his keynote address, Fairfax County, Virginia, Battalion Chief (retired) Roy Nestor encouraged the new firefighters to always strive to leave a positive impression on the public. His speech was particularly poignant as he is the grandfather of firefighter recruit graduate Grant West. Dozens of colleagues, family, and friends listened as similar sentiments and instructions were expressed by Camden County Fire Rescue (CCFR) Chief Terry Smith and others throughout the ceremony.
“We continue to be thankful to the Board of Commissioners and county administration for their ongoing support of this program and Camden County Fire Rescue,” said CCFR Chief Terry Smith. “These new firefighters are equipped to be valuable contributors to public safety thanks to assistance from our partners at Kingsland Fire Rescue and St. Marys Fire Department.”
Members of Recruit Class 2022-13 selected Kelly Polley as their Class Speaker. Nathaniel Tanner was recognized as Most Improved. Kelly Polley received the Top Rung Award for Physical Fitness and recognition for the highest grade point average.
Members of Recruit Class 2023-15 selected Jason Padgett as their Class Speaker. Kenneth Pelzer was recognized as Most Improved. Jason Padgett received the Top Rung Award for Physical Fitness. Braeden Graves was recognized for the highest grade point average.
The ten-week program included both classroom and practical skills training to prepare firefighter recruits for earning state certification. Instructors recognized during the graduation ceremony include: Training Captain Jeffrey Jones, Captain Kevin Petrine, Captain Travis Swann, and Lieutenant Chris Goebel.
For more information about future recruit classes, please contact Camden County Fire Rescue Headquarters at 912-729-3911.
New Firefighters and Camden County Fire Rescue Leadership and Training Staff