New firefighters are joining the ranks of Mississippi’s bravest. A graduation ceremony was held Thursday morning at the Mississippi State Fire Academy in Jackson. The Basic Firefighter 1001 class, Class 216 recruits are from all across the state, including Jackson, Columbus, Pass Christian, Brandon, Petal, Oxford, Clarksdale, Clinton, Pascagoula, Flowood and Tupelo.
Twenty-six recruits were recognized. The graduates had to complete a rigorous seven-week course that included hands-on instruction in fighting fires, fire rescues and handling hazardous materials, among other fire-related topics.
They also had assignments to complete in class as well as online. Stephen Webb just graduated and was chosen to speak for the class. He works for the Clarksdale Fire Department. “It’s an honor to be chosen to do something as far as that and to be able to speak among the class of 216,” Webb said.
