Family, friends, and colleagues gathered at Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service’s Earlswood Training Centre on Thursday, September 4, to celebrate the latest group of Wholetime Firefighters at a Passing Out Parade.

The ceremony, opened by Chief Fire Officer Roger Thomas KFSM, marked the successful completion of 14 weeks of intensive training for the 11 recruits, known as Squad 02/25.

Stuart Bate, Head of Training Delivery said: “From the first day of training, Squad 02/25 have exhibited courage, discipline, and determination to uphold the noblest traditions of the Fire Service.

“Throughout their journey they 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. I feel an enormous sense of pride and admiration for the remarkable journey these graduates have embarked on over the last 14 weeks. Congratulations, graduates.”

The ceremony featured a Parade of Recruits, accompanied by the Ceremonial Colour Party, and an inspection by Chief Fire Officer Thomas, Fire Authority Chair Councillor John Davies, and Group Manager Bate. Recruits demonstrated their emergency response skills through a series of Drill Yard displays before receiving certificates and awards.

Chief Fire Officer, Roger Thomas KFSM said:“We celebrated the remarkable achievements made by squad 02/25 who have undergone fourteen weeks of rigorous training and marked a significant point in their careers as Wholetime Firefighters.

“As an integral part of Wales’s emergency response infrastructure, MAWWFRS exemplifies professionalism, readiness and unwavering dedication to public safety and our new recruits will play a critical role in delivering our essential work to our wider communities.

“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.”

Special awards were presented to recognise individual excellence.

Ben Thomas received the Physical Fitness Achievement Award, presented to the recruit who has consistently pushed themselves to their limit and who has always strived to give their absolute best. The 300 Club was presented to James King, Ben Thomas Emma Lewis, Owen Bassette and Benjamin Moses.

The Recruits’ Recruit Award, chosen by fellow recruits, was presented to Kirsty Davies. It is awarded to the recruit that has shown the greatest effort for both themselves and while helping their fellow recruits.

The Silver Axe went to Ian Scott. It is awarded to the highest-achieving recruit on the course, and the recipient is chosen by their lead instructors. The highest-achieving recruit will have demonstrated consistently high levels of performance in all tasks.

All 11 graduates will now begin their careers at their designated fire stations, with MAWWFRS wishing them long and successful service.