On Thursday, May 22nd, Chief Brian Cooper attended the 18th Annual Fire, Rescue, & EMS Program Awards & Recognition Banquet for St. Mary’s County Cadet Class #18 (2024-2025). The banquet honors high school students that attend the Fire & EMS Cadet program at the James A. Forrest Career and Technology Center. Ridge VFD members in Class #18 being honored included Firefighters Tyler Dodge and Kermit Tillett, and Firefighter/NREMT (National Registry) Chris McBride.

Each member was given an Award of Recognition for completing the program and a Certificate of Commendation from the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County. All three are also set to graduate from Great Mills High School next week.

Congratulations to Firefighter Tillett for earning 3rd Place in Fire and Rescue, and to Firefighter/NREMT McBride for receiving the Excellence in Student Success Award. We also congratulate all Fire/EMS graduates and award winners.

The St. Mary's County Fire & EMS Cadet Program is a partnership involving the St. Mary's County Board of Education, University of Maryland - Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI), St. Mary's County Government, and the St. Mary's County Volunteer Fire and EMS Departments. This initiative offers high school juniors and seniors a unique opportunity to engage in experiential learning and community service within the emergency services sector. The Program is structured to develop leadership skills, instill a sense of responsibility, and provide practical experience in firefighting and emergency medical services. It encompasses both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Participants have the opportunity to complete courses such as Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Hazardous Materials Operations, Rescue Technician: Site Operations, Rescue Technician: Vehicle Machinery and Extrication, and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), acquiring state and/or national certifications. College credits can be obtained by passing the MFRI courses. Training is delivered by instructors from MFRI. Students will be exposed to comprehensive fire and EMS training, encompassing live fire exercises, rescue operations, vehicle extrications, and medical emergencies. Participation in the Program is during school hours and all students must be affiliated with a volunteer fire department or rescue squad to enroll.