Photo courtesy of Fincastle VFD
Four members of the Fincastle Volunteer Fire Department– Cody Hall, Tristan Marshall, Bella Simmons, and John McNamara– have graduated from the Botetourt County Volunteer Fire Academy, completing the same rigorous training required of firefighters across Virginia.
The academy, made up entirely of volunteer recruits from Fincastle, Troutville, Blue Ridge, and Buchanan, followed the Virginia Department of Fire Programs curriculum, including Firefighter I, Firefighter II, and Hazardous Materials Operations. These courses provide the essential knowledge and skills required of all firefighters, from understanding fire behavior to safely responding to hazardous incidents.
“This was a class of 100% volunteers, but they earned the same certifications and are held to the same expectations as their career counterparts,” said Fincastle Fire Chief Robert Simmons. “I’m incredibly proud of Cody, Tristan, Bella, and John for their hard work and dedication. They’ve shown a true commitment to their community and to the values of volunteer service in Botetourt County.”
With their training complete, these four Fincastle firefighters are now fully certified and will continue to serve their community. “Volunteer firefighters are a cornerstone of Botetourt County’s emergency response system– responding with skill, dedication, and professionalism– while saving taxpayers millions of dollars each year. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back and make a difference, consider joining your local volunteer fire department. There’s always a need for dedicated individuals ready to serve,” he said.
~ Fincastle Volunteer Fire Department
