27 New Firefighters Graduate, Receive Assignments

It took more than 1,200 hours of training and on Friday, Gwinnett County recognized the achievements of 27 fire recruits. The group received their diplomas and and badges from Fire Chief Casey Snyder at the firefighter recruit graduation. 

"When you started, you were told this was a trial," said Chief Casey Sanders. "Congratulations, you've made it!"

Recruits underwent 640 hours of firefighter training and 600 hours of advanced emergency medical technician training. Their training began October 30, 2012.

Awards recognizing achievers in academics, physical fitness, core values, top
rung were handed out. The top EMT student also received the Star of Life award. 

"We learned you never leave a brother or sister behind. You risk a lot to save a lot," said new firefighter Cody Long. A son of a Cobb County Fire Lieutenant, Long was selected to speak on behalf of his class. 

"The day of getting a call for employment, you could equate that with winning an Olympic gold medal," added Long.

The 27 new firefighters were hired to replace those who have retired or received promotions in the agency. They also received their assignments at the ceremony.

The class of 2012-2 graduates are:

• Caleb Billings
• Cody Bishop
• Chris Bradford
• Brett Brooks
• Jonathan Butler
• Deven Chapman
• Randy Conyers
• Cody Corbin
• Nick Donegan
• Nate Doss
• Spencer Ellis
• Chris Holcombe
• Brian Ingram
• Wes Linhorst
• Cody Long
• Geoffrey Luby
• Steven Mathews
• Austin Nash 
• Brian O’Shea 
• Justin Owenby
• Rusty Parker
• Kevin Powers
• Eli Quintana 
• Chris Smith
• Lee Telemacque
• Michael Vandegrift
• Brian Wages