37 from Queens are new firefighters

New York's Bravest welcomed 37 Queens residents into their ranks last week following the graduation of 183 new probationary firefighters.
&#8220Today you join the proud ranks of New York's Bravest,” Mayor Michael Bloomberg said while addressing the graduates during the ceremony on Thursday, July 6. &#8220Everyday, the men and women of the FDNY risk their lives to save fellow New Yorkers. I know you will continue that strong tradition and serve this city well.”
The ceremony came after the probationary officers completed 13 weeks of training at the FDNY Training Academy, which is on Randall's Island. During the 13 weeks, the probationary firefighters learned basic engine and truck operations, fire suppression, fire containment, terrorism awareness and hazardous materials training.
The graduation ceremony took place at Brooklyn College, where hundreds of family members and friends looked on.
&#8220Parents can only give good advice or put their children on the right path, but the final forming of a person's character lies in his or her own hands. Our probationary firefighters have chosen courage over complacency,” said Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta. &#8220They have chosen to protect the people and property of this great city. We will always be grateful for their choice.”
The most recent class of additions to the New York Fire Department is also one of the most diverse ones, with 21 percent being minorities. This includes 14 percent Hispanic, five percent African-American and two percent Asian, along with a firefighter with a Native American background.