On Sunday 1 November, Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service (DFRS) celebrated the achievements of nine new on-call firefighters at a pass out ceremony attended by their family and friends.
Derbyshire’s Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive (CFO/CE) Michael Sharman hosted the event which marked the successful completion of several weeks of intense training for firefighters from course 2-26, formally welcoming them to the Service.
The ceremony featured the presentation of certificates, special awards, and operational displays for the assembled guests.
Speaking afterwards, CFO/CE Sharman said: “A pass out ceremony is a special occasion, as we celebrate our newest firefighters completing their training and beginning the next stage of their journey with Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service. They have received the highest standard of training from a dedicated team of professionals, and I am confident they will make a valuable contribution as they join fire crews across Derbyshire.
What makes this achievement even more special is the commitment required of an on-call firefighter. It takes a lot of dedication and flexibility to fit the role around work, family life and other responsibilities.
They couldn't do that without the backing of their family and friends, who have supported them throughout their training. That's why we're pleased to welcome not only our newest firefighters today, but also the people who have helped them reach this point and who will continue to support them throughout their careers alongside their fire service colleagues.”
The nine new on-call firefighters will now join units at Bolsover, Ilkeston, Glossop, Matlock, Melbourne, Staveley, Swadlincote and Whaley Bridge.
Special Awards
At the end of each firefighter trainee course, three special awards are presented.
The first is the Silver Axe, which is presented to the trainee who has consistently achieved a high standard in both the technical and practical aspects of the course from day one.
Two further awards commemorate retired Chief Fire Officer Gavin Tomlinson and former Chief Fire Officer Rob Taylor, who both passed away last year. Proudly sponsored by PBI Performance Products, the Rob Taylor Outstanding Teamwork Award recognises a trainee who has given help and support to their fellow recruits, while the Gavin Tomlinson Outstanding Technical Award is presented to the trainee who achieved the highest combined mark across all their technical assessments.
The special awards for on-call course 2-26 were presented to: