On August 27th, the Clarendon County Fire Rescue (CCFR) held a moving graduation ceremony at Weldon Auditorium, marking the official entry of new firefighter recruits, EMTs, and paramedics into the service. The event was a culmination of months of rigorous training, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to the community they are now prepared to serve.
The ceremony began with an opening prayer led by Assistant Chief Robert Ridgeway, invoking divine protection and strength for the graduates. Following the prayer, Ridgeway led the Pledge of Allegiance, setting the tone for an evening that would honor the graduates’ dedication to public service.
Chief Michael Johnson, in his welcoming remarks, highlighted the significance of the graduates’ accomplishments and the gravity of the responsibilities they were about to undertake. “What an awesome occasion tonight,” Johnson said, addressing the packed auditorium. “First and foremost, I want to congratulate you on your success, your dedication, and your hard work. I am confident that you will continue to serve with distinction and honor as you embark on this noble and challenging career.”
The keynote address was delivered by Chief Joseph Tanner of Horry County Fire Rescue, a seasoned veteran with 47 years of experience in the fire service. Tanner’s speech was both inspirational and reflective, drawing on his decades of experience to offer wisdom and guidance to the new graduates.
“Tonight is a celebration, but it’s also the beginning of a lifelong journey,” Tanner began. “You are now part of a proud tradition of service and sacrifice. From this day forward, everything you do represents not just yourself but your family and this department. It’s up to you to maintain the standards of professionalism and dedication that have been instilled in you.”
Tanner emphasized the importance of continual learning and self-improvement, urging the graduates to never become complacent. “Your new life starts today,” he said. “Continue to learn, seek opportunities to be better, and always strive for excellence. Remember, we cannot provide every scenario you’re going to face in the classroom. Real learning begins now, on the job, and it never stops.”
He also touched on the essential values that define the fire service, including commitment, teamwork, and integrity. “Be committed to yourself, to your brothers and sisters in the department, and to this community,” Tanner advised. “Your commitment to these principles will not only define your career but also the legacy you leave behind.”
As the graduates looked out at the audience, Tanner reminded them of the support system they had within their families and the department. “Look to your left and your right—these are your brothers and sisters,” he said. “They will depend on you, just as you will depend on them. And never forget to look in the mirror and ask yourself, ‘Can they depend on me today?’”
Following the keynote address, Division Chief Joshua Jordan recognized the firefighter recruits individually. As each name was called, the graduates came forward to receive their helmets, a powerful symbol of their readiness to face the challenges of the fire service. The firefighter graduates included Stephen Ard, Rebecca Brock, Angel Duke, Courtney Gumm, Riley Hingst, Christopher Lewis, Cheyanne Phillips, Miranda Vorhis, and Bradley Welch.
Chief Johnson then administered the Firefighter’s Oath, underscoring the solemn duty the new firefighters were assuming. “As a member of Clarendon County Fire Rescue, I solemnly pledge to embrace my position as a symbol of public faith and accept this position as a public trust,” Johnson led the graduates. “I will uphold the laws of the state of South Carolina that govern this department and will always perform my duties to the best of my abilities.”
Captain Lambert presented two notable awards during the ceremony. The Leadership Award was given to Angel Duke, who overcame significant personal challenges during training. “This person made the whole class better just by showing up and pushing everyone in the classroom, both mentally and physically,” Lambert said. Duke’s perseverance and leadership qualities made her a standout among her peers.
Bradley Welch received the Instructor’s Choice Award for his exceptional dedication and passion for the fire service. “Welch had no initial plans to become an interior firefighter,” Lambert noted, “but quickly excelled in his training, showing an unrelenting drive to learn and improve.”
Captain Miller then recognized the EMT graduates, who completed a rigorous course of study totaling 248 hours. The EMT graduates were Brandon Baxley, Cory Beard, Patrick Brailsford, Nic Daugherty, Brandi Dennis, Fowler King, and Richard Stepp. Stepp also received the Academic Achievement Award for his outstanding performance during the EMT course.
The Instructor’s Choice Award for the EMT class was awarded to Nic Daugherty, who remained focused and motivated despite the many challenges of balancing work, study, and family life. “Daugherty showed up, ready and determined every day, despite the exhaustion of balancing a busy shift schedule and personal life,” Captain Miller said.
The paramedic graduates, Courtney Dukes-Atkinson, Jennifer Norman, Shawn Norman, and Maggie Ridgeway were next to be honored. These individuals completed 18 months of intense training, balancing their professional duties with the demands of their education.
The ceremony also included the promotion of several officers within the CCFR. Chief Johnson administered the Officer’s Oath to the newly promoted officers: Abbey Beemer, Robert Hingst, and Stephanie Hughes. In his closing remarks, Johnson commended the officers for their leadership and commitment to the department and the community.
The evening concluded with Chief Johnson expressing his gratitude to the families of the graduates for their support. “Our department would not be what it is without you,” Johnson said. “Thank you for your unwavering support and for sharing your loved ones with us.”
As the graduates left Weldon Auditorium, they did so with a deep sense of pride and responsibility. They are now part of a long-standing tradition of service in Clarendon County, ready to face the challenges ahead with the same dedication and determination that brought them to this milestone. In the words of Chief Tanner, “Welcome to the fire service. Stay safe, stay strong, and never stop learning.”
