CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) – On Friday, May 29, 2020, the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District (Metro Fire or the District) welcomed eighteen new Firefighters, as Recruit Class 20-1 graduates from the Metro Fire Recruit Academy, a California State Fire Marshal Accredited Fire Fighter 1 Academy. Metro Fire Chief Todd Harms highlighted to the new recruits the fact that it was a memorable moment in which “you all are starting your careers and this [same] weekend members are [also] retiring from their careers.”

The Sacramento Area Fire Fighters Local 522 Honor Guard marked the opening of the ceremony with the presentation of the Colors and a processional by a bagpiper from its Pipes and Drums Society.

This was a special class, challenged not only by the usual grueling physical demands and intense academics but by the COVID-19 pandemic.  Metro Fire is particularly proud of these new Firefighters for their ability to adapt; ensuring they continued to be successful on the academy grounds while maintaining obligations to their families and other loved ones during this atypical period in all of our lives.

Under the direction of Metro Fire Assistant Chief/Director of Training Adam House and Drill Master/Captain Jason Harris, the sixteen-week academy included hundreds of hours on the drill ground and classroom combining the knowledge and skills critical for performing emergency operations on scene at fires, emergency medical incidents, and motor vehicle accidents. Recruits also trained in live structural fires, simulated structural collapses, wildland fire suppression, and learned countless other firefighting and rescue skills.

Captain Harris noted that “all these things are simple in concept, but they are very difficult to execute, especially when you are at the limits of mental and physical endurance… and all under time constraints.”

Physical fitness and overall health was also emphasized to reinforce proper physical training for the rigors of firefighting and the healthy lifestyle and nutrition choices required to ensure a long and healthy career.

Many fire service traditions were on display.  Graduating Firefighters received their badges, took their oaths to serve the public, and received their probationary station and shift assignments. Chief Harms told the recruits, “You’ve each earned your badge; the challenge now is to live up to the traditions and standards that go along with that badge that will go along with you.”

Chief Harms said to the 20-1 class passing on the advice of Metro Fire retirees, “Thirty years comes and goes by really quickly. Enjoy the good times, and know that there is going to be bad times along the way.”

Due to restrictions on large gatherings the event was celebrated without families of the graduates and only District staff essential to the graduation ceremony was in attendance.