Harrisonburg | Six training academy grads sworn in as new members of Fire Department

Six recent grads from Recruit Class #12 of the Central Shenandoah Valley Regional Fire-Rescue Academy are joining the ranks of the Harrisonburg Fire Department.

The six:

• David Carl, originally from Catasauqua, Pa., will be assigned to Engine Company 2
• Beckem Cole, originally from Pottstown, Pa., will be assigned to Engine Company 3
• Chase Crosby, originally from Elizabethville, Pa., will be assigned to Tower Company 1
• Ryan Johns, originally from Schuylkill Haven, Pa., will be assigned to Engine Company 1
• Alexander Kreh, originally from Madison, will be assigned to Engine Company 3
• Robert Smith, originally from Hanover County, will be assigned to Engine Company 2

The Central Shenandoah Regional Fire Academy is a cooperative effort among fire departments in the Shenandoah Valley, who partner to provide facilities, instructors and staff to deliver all aspects of recruit training.

This effort allows the regional departments to hire individuals without prior training to begin careers as firefighters with their respective department, opening doors to opportunities previously offered only to individuals who have already completed training on their own.

This is the 12th academy class to graduate since the regional program began in 2020.

“We are deeply grateful for the partnership with our regional fire departments,” Fire Chief Matthew Tobia said. “Our recruit training staff, led by Capt. Larry Bennington, is second to none in providing these new firefighters with the essential skills and, more importantly, commitment to living our core values. This educational experience will form the foundation for their entire careers.”