The Owensboro Fire Department (OFD) hosted its 2024 Recruit Academy Graduation on Saturday at Station 1, marking a milestone as the department’s first in-house academy graduation in three years. The ceremony was held on Saturday and celebrated the completion of training by eight recruits and a lateral transfer firefighter.
The fall recruit class included Anthony Brown, Hunter Cavender, Josh Hayden, Scott Johnson, Caleb Nieman, Samantha Stevens, Pete Tarantino, Ian Wilson, and lateral transfer firefighter Dylan Nobles. Each was officially sworn in during the event.
“This is such a great time to be part of the Owensboro Fire Department,” OFD Chief James Howard said. “Our department is leaning into the future, protecting lives and property with exceptional training, advanced assets, and most importantly, our people.”
The department recently resumed in-house training following the completion of its new burn tower, part of the city’s Operation Firehouse initiative. For the past three years, OFD had sent recruits to the Fire Academy of Kentucky in Greenville for training due to a lack of facilities in Owensboro.
“This new training center is a game-changer,” Howard said. “We’ve been chomping at the bit to run our own academy again, and today marks a major milestone for OFD.”
Training Chief Battalion Chief Corey Gant led the 10-week program alongside Lt. Ted Johnston. Gant praised the recruits’ dedication and teamwork during their preparation.
“They’ve spent weeks dragging hoses, fighting fires, cutting up cars, and even climbing the 110-foot aerial truck,” Gant said. “This group bonded quickly and has already proven to be a strong team. They’ll be tremendous assets to our department.”
Howard echoed Gant’s sentiments, offering words of advice and encouragement to the graduates. He emphasized the importance of continuous learning, teamwork, and public education in their careers.
“You have what is one of the greatest jobs in the world,” Howard said. “It’s a privilege to serve this community, and it’s up to you to make the most of this opportunity.”
The ceremony recognized city officials, including Mayor Tom Watson and members of the City Commission, whose support helped fund the new training facility. Howard and Gant also thanked department members who contributed to the academy’s success through hands-on instruction and mentoring.
“This was a department-wide effort,” Gant said. “We couldn’t have done this without the support of our battalion chiefs, city leaders, and firefighters who stepped up to help train these recruits.”
The graduates will now begin their assignments, with their first shifts on the fire trucks starting immediately.
“Congratulations to all of you,” Howard said. “We look forward to seeing how you make us proud.”
