South Pend Oreille Fire District Chief Shane Stocking announced the graduation of 18 firefighters from the recent Fire Academy Ceremony held at Newport High School.
The Fire Academy was attended by four local Fire Departments: South Pend Oreille Fire and Rescue, Pend Oreille Fire Districts 2 and 4, and West Pend Oreille Fire District. The lead instructors were Kyle Stutzman and Corey Toombs with SPOFR for the class that started in February. In addition, Adam Micone of Pend Oreille Fire District 4 was the Co-Ordinator for the class.
The Fire Academy focused on Firefighter Skills, Search and Rescue, Extrication, and Wildland firefighting.
Chief Shane Stocking said.”I can speak for all the area fire chiefs when I say we are so incredibly proud of the new firefighters completing their basic certification training. The firefighters and their families should be proud, This is an intense time commitment with equal mental and physical challenges. The respect I hold for anyone who chooses to undertake training to serve their neighbors is impossible to explain. This academy also demonstrates the fantastic cooperation between Pend Oreille County and Bonner County departments.
All departments are proud to recognize our graduates and are excited for them to serve alongside us. Special thanks to Lieutenants Toombs and Stutzman, and Captain Micone for their investment in these firefighters and their region.
Public Information Officer
SPOFR
