Firefighter Bohlmann (C), Firefighter Pelak (L) saluting Chief Gallante (R) after their accepting their duty badges.

On June 18, 2010 at 10am Firefighters Justin Bohlmann and Matt Pelak graduated from the Utica Fire Academy after 15 weeks of require firefighting training.  This 15 weeks of training that Justin and Matt have completed is required training for all newly hired career firefighters and mandated by New York State.

During their time at the academy they learned skills in fire supression, fire behavior, fire safety education, pump operations, Haz-Mat, building construction and proper opersations of ground ladders and aerial devices to mention a few.  The classes are comprised of both classroom and hands on sessions taught by Utica fire officers and New York State fire instructors.

Firefighters Pelak and Bohlmann were both presented their duty badges by Chief Tory Gallante at the graduation ceremony which was attended by several members of the local and the district administration.  The firefighters were among 14 firefighters from various fire departments across the state that were recognized for thier hard work and dedication to the fire service by joining a great rewarding career. The ceremony was attended by the State Fire Administrator,  Utica Mayor, Utica Fire Officers and class instructors as well as several Chiefs of the departments representing firefighters graduating, and their family members too.

We all wish Firefighter's Bohlmann and Pelak a rewarding,  wonderful and safe career with the Fairview Fire District.