23 New Alexandria Fire Department Recruits Join Fire Stations

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The Alexandria Fire Department welcomed its latest class of recruits after a graduation Friday.

There are 23 new firefighters/EMTs joining the fire department after over seven months at the training academy. A graduation ceremony was held Friday at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. Alexandria Clerk of Circuit Court Greg Parks presided over the swearing in, and there were remarks from City Manager Jim Parajon, International Association of Firefighters Local 2141 President Joshua Turner, and Alexandria Fire/EMS Chief Corey Smedley.

"As the Fire/EMS Chief, my mission is you," Smedley said in remarks. "I cannot emphasize enough the importance of prioritizing safety and taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. Maintain a work-life balance and spend quality time with your family and friends."

Probationary firefighters began their assignments at fire stations Saturday. Fire department spokesperson Raytevia Evans said the recruits were assigned to various stations across the city.