The FDNY recently saw a new group of EMTs graduate from their academy, many of whom come from families with proud histories of civil service. One such graduate, Javon Fabien, comes from a family of EMTs, with his mother having been pregnant with him while in the academy herself. Now, 20 years later, Fabien is following in his mother’s footsteps and is ready to hit the streets of South Jamaica, Queens to serve his community. His mother, now an instructor, expressed her overwhelming emotions at seeing her son graduate and spoke about her pride in him.
Fabien himself described the experience as “surreal” and expressed his happiness at finally achieving his goal after years of hard work. He is determined to make his own mark in the fire service and work his way up the ranks. The probationary EMTs underwent extensive training at the academy, learning crucial skills such as CPR, patient assessments, oxygen and ventilation techniques, management of various medical conditions, and emergency childbirth. The academy graduates also included three veterans, further underscoring the commitment to serving others within this group.
Richard Corcoran IV, a fourth-generation academy graduate, also took part in the ceremony alongside his father and grandfather, both of whom are firefighters. Corcoran IV expressed the pressure of living up to his family’s legacy but is determined to carve his own path within the fire service. His goal is to become a paramedic or rescue medic and eventually transition to the fire department. His proud grandfather emphasized the rewarding nature of a career in civil service and highlighted the sense of camaraderie and community that comes with being a firefighter.
Corcoran IV’s grandfather, Richard Corcoran II, reflected on the joy and fulfillment that come from helping others through a career in the fire service. He shared stories of the tight-knit community within the firehouse and the importance of serving others. As someone who has had multiple family members follow in his footsteps as firefighters, he emphasized the unique bond and sense of purpose that comes from working in such a noble profession. His encouragement to anyone considering a career in firefighting was to take the time to explore it, as it is a truly wonderful experience.
Overall, the recent graduation ceremony at the FDNY’s academy showcased the dedication and commitment of a new group of EMTs who are poised to serve their communities with pride. The generational ties and family legacies within the fire service were evident as parents looked on with pride as their children followed in their footsteps. The determination to make a difference and the focus on serving others were consistent themes among the graduates, who are eager to begin their careers and uphold the tradition of excellence within the FDNY. The ceremony was a celebration of service, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of those who choose to dedicate their lives to helping others.
