22 recruits graduate from Roanoke Valley Regional Fire and EMS Academy

Recruits spent 18 weeks and 1,000 hours in training

SALEM, Va. – It's a big day for 22 recruits who graduated from the Roanoke Valley Regional Fire and EMS Academy Thursday.

The recruits spent 18 weeks and nearly 1,000 hours receiving instruction and practical training in search and rescue, building construction and forcible entry, to name a few.

They also underwent EMS instruction in basic anatomy and physiology, medical trauma assessments and medical trauma assessments.

“I just love helping people. I think that's what will make the world better,” Etienne Morisseau, who graduated today, said.

Many of the new firefighters begin their assignment as early as Friday morning.