Thirty-five recruits make up the 23rd cycle of the Guam Fire Academy

The day for 35 men and women started off with getting into formation and some physical training.

The group of 31 men and four women, who range from 20 to 43-years old, make up the 23rd cycle of the Guam fire Academy. Guam Fire Department Public Information Officer, Lt. Nick Garrido said the cycle is about two weeks in.

“The Chief started off with a welcoming briefing, then right into meeting the cadre staff, which is going to be conducting all their  physical training, to include basic fire ground operations along with the EMS portion. This week they kicked off the EMS training and its conducted here at the Guam Community College,” said Garrido. 

For recruits, 31-year-old Magdalena Taitano and 22-year-old Jose San Nicolas, the desire to become a firefighter has always been there.

“So currently I serve in the Guam Army National Guard as a combat medic, so I am medically trained in combat and not in day to day settings. I wanted to further my education and I felt that the Guam Fire Department was my calling and I have such a deep respect for the department,” said Taitano. 

“I wanted to serve the Guam Fire Department because it provides the greatest response capabilities to the People of Guam and the community. I want to be an asset,” said San Nicolas. 

Upon hearing the news that they were selected for the newest fire cycle, it was a rush of emotions. But come the first day, they were ready.

“I'm meeting new people for the first time. These are the people I am going to have to work with, it was intimidating but exciting at the same time,” said Taitano. 

“It was exciting to meet my cyclemates. we all arrived on the first day with a common goal, it really helped us quickly develop teamwork and resilience,” San Nicolas added. 

Although mentally and physically challenging, the determination is there to push them to the finish line in the horizon.

“My motivation is the 34 other recruits that I'm going through the cycle with. They motivate me to do my best because they're giving their best, motivated by my family, and knowing I'm bettering myself,” San Nicolas added. 

“My kids are my motivation. My family is motivational. When I come through these doors I motivate my cycle  mates as well. We have to stay strong,” said Taitano. 

For the next couple of months, recruits will be focusing on the EMS portion to prepare for the National EMS Registry Test for certification.