WHO: Fifty-seven firefighters hailing from 24 fire departments across New York State graduate from state’s Recruit Firefighter Training Program.

WHAT: Graduation ceremony for fifty-seven firefighters who successfully completed an extensive 11-week long training program at the State Academy of Fire Science. Each firefighter completed more than 500 hours of intense training at the Academy. All the graduates will become full-time firefighters.

WHEN: Friday, May 11, 2018. Media invited to check-in at 9:30 a.m. Ceremony begins promptly at 10:00 a.m. and concludes before noon.

WHERE: The Community Center, Boat Launch Road, Watkins Glen, N.Y., 14891.

Media attendees must RSVP to be admitted to the graduation ceremony.

WHY: The new graduates join the more than 100,000 brave men and women serving in the fire service in New York State. These dedicated and courageous public servants respond to emergencies day and night to protect the state’s citizens.

RSVP: Media outlets please RSVP by Thursday, May 10. To do so, please contact Chet Lasell at chet.lasell@dhses.ny.gov or (518) 402-6472 with the names of any reporters, photographers, and videographers planning to attend; the media outlet they represent; and contact information. Credentials will be provided at check-in.

About DHSES

The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) provides leadership, coordination and support for efforts to prevent, protect against, prepare for, respond to, and recover from terrorism and other man-made and natural disasters, threats, fires and other emergencies. For more information, visit the DHSES Facebook page, follow @NYSDHSES on Twitter, or visit dhses.ny.gov.