The Parksville Volunteer Fire Department welcomed seven new members at a small graduation ceremony this month.
Recruit training began in May last year — this month new recruit firefighters were presented with their yellow hats and congratulated for their accomplishments, according to the city.
“Our newest recruits proved they were up for the task, successfully completing their first year of training, demonstrating skills and dedication,” said Fire Chief Marc Norris. “It is my pleasure to welcome this new batch of recruits into our ranks and to the Parksville Fire Rescue family.”
Prior to COVID restrictions, graduates and their families gathered for an official graduation ceremony. This year the department was creative in recognizing graduates and hosted a modified ceremony at the firehall with just the recruits, Norris and training officers. During Zoom meeting for all members on April 12, recruits also had badges pinned by someone of their choosing to celebrate their accomplishment.
