Joining the Ranks of the AFD

Fifteen trainees and 171 uniformed firefighters.

New AFD recruit, Ben Cotton says, "It's been something I've always wanted to do. It's a great way to serve the community"

He's one of fifteen enrolled in the Abilene firefighter training session.

Before hitting the floor, they'll have to go through five weeks of training. Lt. Greg Goettsch says that means "...They'll actually be riding the firetrucks and responding to calls."

But if the Abilene firefighters find themselves short-staffed within the next five weeks, the recuirs can be used in assistance roles.

Right now these firefighters are learning the ropes.

"We have to familiarize them with the way we do business every day," says Goettsch. "You know our rules and regulations are unique to the Abilene fire department..."

Aside from hard work and long hours, there are plenty of perks to being an Abilene firefighter.

James Henson, future Abilene Firefighter, emphasized the feeling of brotherhood is important to him.

"When I got out of the military, I found it real hard to find a real tight group, and the fire department was the only place I could find that."

While our active Abilene firefighters have expectations for them, the new guys have expectations as well.

Recruit, Ben Cotton stated, "I kind of came into this with the expectation of them making me the best that I can be, because we want to serve our community the best that we can."

These future firefighters are ready to earn their certification and start serving the community.

While the firefighters are busy in the classroom, it won't be long before they're the first to get the hands on experience in the new fire facility.