Photo: Graduation of new firefighters from the CAFMA- PFD Joint Recruit Academy
In a powerful evening of pride, remembrance, and celebration, the Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA) and the Prescott Fire Department (PFD) proudly welcomed 14 new firefighters—nine for CAFMA and five for PFD—during a graduation ceremony held Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at the Yavapai College Jim and Linda Lee Performing Arts Center.
The event marked the culmination of months of rigorous training through the CAFMA- PFD Joint Recruit Academy. The ceremony opened with a presentation by the Honor Guard and the sounds of bagpipes, underscoring the strong traditions of the Fire Service.
During the ceremony, each recruit was pinned with their badge by a family member or close friend—an emotional and symbolic moment marking the beginning of their service. Following the pinning, City of Prescott Mayor Phil Goode administered the oath of office to the five new Prescott Fire Department firefighters, while Interim Fire Chief John Feddema delivered the oath for CAFMA’s nine graduates.
A solemn and poignant moment came as fallen Recruit Dylan Wallace was honored with a moment of silence. His badge was presented to his father in a moving tribute, reminding all in attendance that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of firefighters.
CAFMA Recruit Raul Rocha was named the inaugural recipient of the Top Recruit Award, recognizing his exceptional performance, leadership, and commitment throughout the academy.
Special recognition was also given to Robert Borker, Director of Fire Science with Yavapai College, whose dedication and support have been instrumental in building a strong partnership between agencies and supporting the success of each academy class. Yavapai College remains a valued partner in the shared mission to train and prepare up-and-coming firefighters.
CAFMA and PFD would also like to extend sincere gratitude to the dedicated training teams and Recruit Training Officers (RTOs) from both departments. Their leadership, professionalism, and dedication to developing tomorrow’s firefighters were critical to the success of this academy. Their mentorship has laid a strong foundation for these new recruits as they begin serving their communities.
In addition, both agencies extend their sincere appreciation to their professional staff members whose behind-the-scenes efforts supported the success of the academy and brought the graduation ceremony to life. Their dedication, coordination, and attention to detail ensured a meaningful and seamless experience for recruits and their families.
“This joint recruit academy is more than a training program; it is a testament to what collaboration and shared commitment can achieve,” said Prescott Fire Chief Holger Durre. “We are honored to welcome these new firefighters into the Fire Service. They are ready to serve our communities well.”
“In partnership with Prescott Fire, we are proud to welcome these 14 graduates into our firehouses,” said CAFMA Interim Fire Chief John Feddema. “This class demonstrated extraordinary perseverance, teamwork, and heart. The future of the Fire Service is in strong hands.”
Congratulations to the graduates of Class 25-1:
- Danny Anderson (PFD)
- Wyatt Bray (PFD)
- Ryan Crouse (PFD)
- Liam Finnegan (CAFMA)
- Jacob Kelley (CAFMA)
- Joshua Khazaal (CAFMA)
- Cole Moreland (CAFMA)
- Jamison Naf (PFD)
- Tristan Newman (CAFMA)
- Reyes Yanez Rendon (CAFMA)
- Raul Rocha (CAFMA)
- Ethan Shelabarger (PFD)
- Michael Simonis (CAFMA)
- Cody Tucker (CAFMA)
