From navigating the hallways and stairwells of Foran to bravely putting out fires and saving lives, these Foran graduates seamlessly transitioned into their role of firefighters. Years after graduating, they are now putting their lives on the line serving Milford.
The courageous firefighters have committed to protecting the Milford community and its citizens. Foran alumni and Milford firefighter Mr. Jake Burwell emphasized how serving the Milford community impacted his life.
“The basic answer is being able to help people on their worst days. But for me, growing up and living in Milford makes helping my own community even more rewarding. I enjoy giving back to the city that I was born and raised in.” Says Burwell
Burwell is currently a firefighter and an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) on Milford’s quint five located at their East Side Fire Station. At a young age, people often face the uncertainty of choosing a future career, but Burwell knew what he wanted to do.
Burwell states, “I grew up in a family of first responders and was constantly exposed to the different public service jobs. From a very young age I knew this was the profession I wanted to pursue.”
Milford provides unique conditions for its Fire Department, including high amounts of people traveling in and out of Milford, 17 miles of coastline, and a variety of weather conditions. In response to these characteristics, the Milford Fire Department created the Milford Physical Agility Test (MPAT) to test new recruits for Milford’s unique calls and conditions.
Foran alumni and new Milford Firefighter Mr. Chance Wassmer states, “The Milford Fire Department is unique in their testing process, the testing is much harder than most departments, the written test is not like other departments.” Wassmer explains his role in the Milford Fire Department.
“My current job in the fire department is Probationary Firefighter, basically I’m a brand new firefighter and have to not only respond to calls but also any chores of the day.” Wassmer states.
The journey from high school student to firefighter has left many staff members proud of what these former students accomplished. This includes Dean of Students Mr. Justin Zywocinski.
Zywocinski expresses his thoughts and says, “I think it is wonderful when I hear about a Foran High School graduate that goes on to be a firefighter. Firefighters have an important job of helping people that have a medical emergency or were impacted by a fire. It is difficult but important work and I am proud that a Foran graduate has worked hard for the opportunity and responsibility to help their community.”
Now, as these alumni actively contribute to saving lives, they’re leaving an incredible mark on the community, making it better than they found it. As they continue to put their lives on the line, these Foran graduates will forever be connected to Foran and The City of Milford.
