The Chatham County Fire Department (CCFD) proudly welcomed 26 new firefighters into its ranks during a Recruit Academy Graduation Ceremony held November 5, 2026, at Savannah Technical College's Eckburg Auditorium.

The ceremony celebrated the culmination of months of hard work, dedication, perseverance, and intensive training, marking a significant milestone for the graduates and the department.

Under the leadership of Training and Safety Chief Joshua Anderson, Captain John-William Farrell, and Training Coordinator Henry Pham, recruits completed more than 900 hours of rigorous training over a four-month period, preparing them for the physical, mental, and technical challenges of the fire service.

Throughout the academy, recruits underwent comprehensive instruction in structural firefighting, fire suppression, search and rescue, hazardous materials operations, emergency medical response, vehicle extrication, and other essential firefighting skills. The program also emphasized physical fitness, teamwork, accountability, and the importance of making critical decisions under pressure.

In addition to their firefighting training, graduates earned their Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) certification, further enhancing their ability to provide lifesaving care to residents and visitors throughout Chatham County.

More Than a Graduation — A Commitment to Service

For these 26 firefighters, graduation represents much more than successfully completing recruit school. It marks the beginning of a career dedicated to protecting lives, safeguarding property, and serving the community with courage, compassion, and professionalism.

The journey to becoming a firefighter demands personal sacrifice, discipline, and a willingness to push beyond perceived limits. From their first day at the academy to their final training evolutions, these graduates demonstrated the resilience and determination necessary to earn the title of firefighter.

The graduation also marked Training and Safety Chief Joshua Anderson's 14th graduating recruit class, reflecting his continued commitment to developing the next generation of firefighters.

Following graduation, the department's newest members will begin serving at fire stations throughout Chatham County, where they will continue developing their skills alongside experienced firefighters and company officers.

Meet Chatham County Fire Department's Newest Firefighters

The Chatham County Fire Department proudly congratulates the following graduates:

• Marcellus Anthanasiou

• Brandon Bonds

• Faith Bullied

• Carson Cooley

• Donte Crawford

• Brandon Dillin

• Charles Donaway

• Kellyn Hobbs

• Christopher Jinks

• Xavier Laing

• Caleb Mays

• Will Michalowicz

• Noah Pate

• Isaiah Robertson

• Pedram Samiakalantari

• Alex Schwartz

• Michael Sterner

• Bryce Stripling

• Justin Thomas

• James Versage

• Samuel Walker

• Herbert Weaver

• Trenton Williams

• Tremane Wilson

• Omari Wood

• Christopher Youngblood

The Training Never Ends

While recruit school has officially concluded, the learning process is far from over. The fire service requires continuous education, ongoing training, and an unwavering commitment to professional development.

As these firefighters transition from the training environment to operational assignments, they will continue building upon the foundation established during the academy while gaining valuable experience responding to emergencies throughout the county.

The Chatham County Fire Department extends its appreciation to the Training Division, instructors, mentors, and family members whose support and dedication contributed to the success of this graduating class.

To our newest firefighters: Be proud of what you have accomplished, never stop learning, and always remember why you chose to serve. Your journey is just beginning.

Please join us in congratulating these 26 individuals as they begin their careers serving and protecting Chatham County.

Congratulations and welcome to the fire service!

Chatham County Fire Department — Building a safer community through service excellence.