The Augusta Fire Department celebrated the achievements of Recruit Class 25-04 Friday morning during a graduation ceremony at Augusta Technical College, honoring a group of men and women who have completed months of rigorous training and are now ready to serve their community.
The ceremony’s theme, “Answering the Call… A Commitment Made,” reflected the dedication and perseverance of the recruits who will now join the ranks of the Augusta Fire/EMA Department. Families, friends, and community leaders gathered inside the Jack B. Patrick Information Technology Center to recognize the class’s accomplishments.
A day of pride and purpose
Augusta City Administrator Tameka Allen delivered a heartfelt welcome connecting the graduates’ new responsibilities to the city’s recent challenges.
“What we’re celebrating here today isn’t simply a career choice — it’s truly a commitment,” Allen said. “You chose to move toward danger when others are moving away.”
She closed her welcome by thanking the class for their courage.
“Thank you for your service to Augusta and to every place that may one day call on your strength,” Allen said. “Congratulations, graduates. May your journey always be guided by purpose, strengthened by faith, and protected by grace.”
Honoring achievement
The ceremony included a pinning presentation, where graduates were joined onstage by family members and mentors. Special recognitions were awarded to recruits Octavio Castro-Baheza and Teagan Krupp for their outstanding performance during training.
Castro-Baheza earned the awards for the Leadership Award, and Highest Average During EMT School, while Krupp received the Physical Fitness Award.
Chief Burden’s keynote
Fire Chief Antonio Burden delivered the keynote address, emphasizing courage, teamwork, and the importance of mental health in the fire service.
“Answering the call is more than just a phrase — it’s a promise you’ve made,” Burden told the graduates. “Every time you roll out, you are answering the call that demands courage, skill, and unwavering commitment.”
Burden reminded the recruits that their duties go beyond fighting fires.
“You will see things most people cannot imagine,” he said. “Mental resilience is not a sign of weakness — it’s a sign of strength and professional necessity.”
Oath of service
After Burden’s remarks, the new firefighters stood, raised their right hands, and took the official oath to serve and protect the citizens of Augusta. The ceremony concluded with the retiring of the colors and group photographs with family and command staff.
As Class 25-04 embarks on its new chapter, Chief Burden left them with one final reminder:
“Go forward, serve with honor, lead with compassion, and look out for one another. You answered the call, and your city is now better for it.”
