Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service held the Celebration of Success ceremony on Monday 15 November at Theatre Severn, in Shrewsbury, to recognise the newest members of the on-call crews.
Nineteen new recruits were given a certificate for completing their training and becoming on-call firefighters with the Service. Among the new recruits was a retired headteacher, mechanic, paramedic and stunt rider.
Our on-call firefighters come from all different walks of life with varying skills and experience but they have all gone through the same intense training of a recruits course and are now ready to serve their communities.
Three firefighters were awarded with the Silver Axe, a recognition as ‘top student’ on their respective courses. This year the honour was awarded to Alex Temmenk, of Albrighton, Kieran Faulkner, of Ellesmere and Dan Weaver, of Church Stretton.
The employers of some of these new recruits were also recognised to show the Service’s appreciation for allowing the firefighters to respond from their place of work.
Chief Fire Officer Rod Hammerton said:
“The evening was a wonderful celebration of the hard work and commitment these individuals have shown throughout their training and now in their job as on-call firefighters.
“They have each chosen to dedicate their time to keeping their communities safe, most of them alongside full time jobs and family commitments and are we are extremely proud of them.
“I’d also like to thank all the families, friends and employers who attended the ceremony and showed their support for their loved ones. Without their ongoing support and encouragement, the Service would not have the amazing on-call function it has.”
A number of other awards were given out as part of the ceremony including recognition for the staff who have committed more than 10,000 hours to support the NHS in delivering vaccinations throughout the pandemic.
CFO Rod Hammerton added:
“The staff and volunteers have committed an enormous amount of their time in order to administer over 20,000 vaccinations to the people of Shropshire. I am proud of all the work that has been done to support communities through these difficult times and would like to praise the staff who have assisted, whether that be by training as a vaccinator or supporting the various vaccination sites.”
Eric Carter, Chairman of Shropshire and Wrekin Fire Authority said:
“It was a real honour to present awards to the individuals at the ceremony who allow this Service to continue to make Shropshire safer by protecting their communities.
“It was also a joy to meet the friends and families of those who have just begun their journey with the Service and offer my gratitude to each and every one of them.”
