Two new firefighters at Norwich

  • 2015-06-23
On May 28th the Norwich Fire department held a ceremony to introduce James Justice and Alex John as their newest members.

The initiation took place at the headquarters on North Thames Street with colleagues, family, and friends. Betsy Barrett, the city clerk, had Justice and John take their oaths. Family members were allowed to pin on their badges.

February 4th was the date that they were officially hired but Justice and John just recently graduated from the Connecticut Fire Academy. According to Kenneth Scandariato, the fire chief, they were start students. He expressed how proud he was of them. Justice stated that he enjoyed his time at the academy and learned a great deal. Both men have a probation period lasting one year ahead of them. They will be doing different shifts and units to give them a diverse amount of experience. They must also learn all the streets and fire hydrants in the city, driving department vehicles, and maintenance for equipment.

The Norwich Fire department is the only paid department in the area. Although the department has 50 firefighters including the two new recruits, they have one more position available. In searching for their last member, they could hire a flyer printing service to make vibrant fliers so they can post them around Norwich. A picture of the firefighters in action may motivate someone to join the team.