On Wednesday, April 16, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) held a graduation ceremony and passing out parade for the latest group of wholetime firefighters.

The ceremony, opened by Chief Fire Officer Roger Thomas KFSM and held at MAWWFRS Earlswood Training Centre saw family, friends and fire service personnel gather to celebrate the achievements of the 11 individuals.

Squad 01/25 as they are collectively known, recently underwent a transformative journey and completed 14 weeks of rigorous training.

Stuart Bate, Head of Training Delivery said: “I feel an enormous sense of pride and admiration for the remarkable journey these graduates have embarked on over the last 14 weeks. From the first day of their training, they have exhibited courage, discipline, and determination to uphold the noblest traditions of the Fire Service.

“Throughout their training Squad 01/25 have undergone a series of demanding challenges, both physically and mentally. They have demonstrated exceptional resilience, and have embraced the values of teamwork, integrity, and selflessness that define our profession.

“We gathered to celebrate their achievements, let us not forget the sacrifices they have made and the dedication they have shown. They have chosen a path that requires courage, compassion, and a deep sense of duty to others.”

The ceremony included the parade of recruits and an inspection of the recruits by Chief Fire Officer Roger Thomas, Chair of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Authority, Cllr Gwynfor Thomas and Head of Training Delivery, Group Manager Stuart Bate.

Several drill yard displays were held to illustrate the emergency response skills each squad member has developed.

This was followed by a presentation of certificates and awards.

Chief Fire Officer, Roger Thomas KFSM said: “Yesterday we celebrated the remarkable achievements made by these 11 dedicated individuals who have undergone 14 weeks of rigorous training and marked a significant point in their careers as wholetime firefighters.

“As an integral part of Wales’ emergency response infrastructure, MAWWFRS exemplifies professionalism, readiness and unwavering dedication to public safety and you are now an essential part of this work.My sincere thanks go to the training delivery department who have worked tirelessly to deliver a first-class training course to our new recruits. Without the skills, expert knowledge and dedication, none of this would be possible.”

Each firefighter was presented with a framed certificate by Chief Fire Officer Thomas.

Three special awards were also given to recruits.

The Physical Fitness Achievement Award was presented to Kallum Richards by Chief Fire Officer Thomas for consistently pushing himself to his limits and always striving to give his best. The Recruits' Recruit Award, chosen by fellow recruits, went to Rhys Tucker for his outstanding effort and support of others, and was presented by Fire Authority Chair, Cllr Gwynfor Thomas. Finally, the Highest-Achieving Recruit Award, the Silver Axe, was awarded to Llion Jones for his exceptional performance in all aspects of the course, including practical skills, written assignments, examinations, leadership, and teamwork, and was presented by Chief Fire Officer Thomas.