PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Fire Department swore in 61 new EMTs on Sept. 10, graduating Cadet Class 8 after 12 weeks of intensive training at the Fire Academy. They will now serve in one of the country’s busiest EMS systems.
The department answers 800–1,000 emergency calls each day, about 80% of which are medical, officials said in a statement. Firehouse magazine’s annual run survey has ranked one of the department’s units the nation’s busiest ambulance for the past four years.
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“We are public servants. When people are having their worst day, they call 911, and these EMTs respond to save lives,” Commissioner Jeffrey Thompson told the graduates. “Your demanding Academy training prepared you for the challenges ahead.”
Deputy Chief Allerton honored several cadets for exceptional performance:
- Academic Excellence: EMT Hayley Dunaway
- Spirit Award: EMT Marcella Pringle
- Physical Fitness: EMT Luke Pukanecz
- Commissioner’s Leadership Award: EMT Ayala Quintana
- Eugene Janda Instructor Service Award: Acting Paramedic Lt. Ryan Parker
The Spirit Award, decided by secret ballot, recognizes the cadet who inspires and supports classmates. EMT Pringle also served as class spokesperson. She reminded her peers of the department’s motto, Dedication + Service.
“We learned to think fast, lead with empathy, stay calm in chaos, and trust one another,” Pringle said. “We earned the right to wear this patch, and we accept the responsibility it brings. We’ve reached the finish line, now let’s go make a difference.”
