Sullivan Fire Junior Academy Graduates 20

The Sullivan Fire Protection District held its 17th Junior Fire Academy, with 20 junior firefighters graduating from the intense week of classroom and live training.

The events began on June 10 and concluded with a graduation program held at the Ridge Church.

The program is led by Nick White, who is assisted by firefighters Jacob Dace and Drew Richards.

“We had a very good week with the young firefighters training. Some found out what the heat can be about as a firefighter, but they were a great group,” said Chief Eric Lewis.

The program brought junior firefighters, often the future of professional firefighters, from Sullivan, De Soto Rural, Steelville, Eureka, Tri-County, Cuba and Cedar Hill to Sullivan Fire for the week long training. It began with a classroom activity each day, followed by live training in fire rescue, auto extrication, ladders, water supply, forcible entry live firefighting and CPR.

The program is undergoing different requirements with the State Fire Marshal’s Office to once again have the class recognized by the state.

“We look to have this program certified as a Firefighter One completed course in the future as we work with the state,” said Lewis. “We appreciate all the support we received once again for the program and look forward to next year.