[0:01] Good afternoon and welcome to the St. [0:03] Paul Fire class of 2025B graduation [0:06] ceremony. My name is Jeremy Baker. I am [0:09] the deputy chief in charge of training [0:10] for St. Paul Fire Department and I have [0:12] had the pleasure and responsibility to [0:14] oversee the recruit academy for your [0:16] loved ones over these last few months. [0:19] This ceremony is a celebration of the [0:21] successful completion of an intense and [0:23] comprehensive training program built on [0:26] over 180 years of proud tradition and [0:29] service to the residents and visitors of [0:30] the city of St. Paul. [0:32] >> Class of 2025, bravo. Prepare to march [0:36] for the march. [0:43] Heat. [0:51] Heat. [1:01] Heat. Heat. [1:41] Class 2025. by Bravo. Prepare to face [1:44] left face. [1:47] Prepare to take your seats. Take your [1:49] seats. [1:56] The St. Paul Fire Department Local 21 [1:58] Honor Guard will now present the colors. [2:00] Please stand and remain standing during [2:02] the posting of the colors. [2:09] [music] [2:09] Heat. Heat. [2:16] [music] [2:20] [music] [2:29] [music] [2:39] >> [music] [2:45] [music] [2:48] >> Thanks [2:51] very [music] [2:54] post [3:01] cover. [3:16] All uniform personnel, present arms. [3:24] Order arms. [3:30] [music] [3:32] [bell] [3:42] [music] [3:51] >> [music] [3:59] [music] [4:07] [music] [4:14] >> You may all be seated. [4:23] We'd like to thank the members of the [4:25] St. Paul firefighters Local 21 Honor [4:27] Guard for their presentation and their [4:28] dedication to the department. [4:32] Becoming a firefighter for the city of [4:34] St. Paul is not easy. We as a department [4:36] and as a city have high expectations of [4:39] all of you. You've chosen to join a [4:42] department that values the role of [4:43] public servant, one that you have come [4:45] to understand is your role in and out of [4:47] the fire stations. Your desire and [4:50] willingness to make a career out of the [4:52] public service and your hard work to [4:53] make it so are the things we celebrate [4:55] today. [4:57] In short, in a short eight weeks, you [5:00] have risen to every challenge we've laid [5:02] before you, worked diligently to be in [5:04] the best physical shape of your life, [5:06] studied every lesson we have assigned to [5:07] you, all to be prepared to serve the [5:10] residents and visitors of St. Paul. We [5:12] are honored to have some special guests [5:14] here to help us celebrate your [5:15] achievement and your willingness to [5:16] serve. Mayor of St. Paul Melvin Carter, [5:19] members of city council, representatives [5:22] of Amy Clolobashar and Betty McCollum's [5:24] offices, local 21 leadership, and all of [5:27] those that have supported and helped [5:29] bring today to fruition. Thank you for [5:31] your help and celebrating the [5:34] accomplishments and dedication to public [5:36] service of these 21 soon to be [5:38] firefighters. [5:43] Fire Chief Butch has served the city for [5:45] nearly 41 years and came from our own [5:47] ranks. He led the department with the [5:50] knowledge of where we have been while [5:51] pushing us to where we are going. He [5:53] challenged the status quo and held [5:55] steadfast to the traditions that make us [5:57] one of the best fire departments in the [5:59] country. A few weeks ago, Chief Hanks [6:02] asked me a question I didn't know the [6:03] answer to at the moment. He asked how [6:05] many recruitmies I've done. [6:08] After he left, I was thinking about the [6:10] question. The answer easily found with a [6:13] little bit of homework. But the part I [6:14] was thinking about is this. I haven't [6:16] done a single academy by myself. [6:19] I have always been part of a team whose [6:21] goal is to prepare the next generation [6:23] of firefighters to join join the 450 odd [6:26] amazing souls out there protecting the [6:28] residents and visitors this very day, [6:31] tomorrow, and every day of the year. [6:34] That team starts with the mayor who made [6:37] publica public safety a top priority and [6:40] who appointed Chief Inks to lead the big [6:42] biggest busiest fire department in the [6:44] state, the Capitol City Fire Department. [6:47] In St. Paul, we hire the best and then [6:49] make them even better. We hold a high [6:52] bar and take pride in getting to that [6:53] bar. Chief Inks has repeatedly allowed [6:57] me to pluck the best of the best to take [6:59] on one of the most important jobs any [7:01] firefighter will ever do, training new [7:03] firefighters. Together, we put together [7:06] a team that is tasked with the [7:08] responsibility of making sure the newest [7:10] firefighters have all the tools they [7:11] need to be safe, be smart, and capable [7:14] and deserving of the honor of serving [7:15] this great city. I would like it take to [7:18] take a moment to recognize the team who [7:20] took on the challenge of making this [7:21] class worthy of the badge they will [7:23] receive in a few moments. [7:26] Training staff and academy instructors, [7:28] please stand when I call your name. [7:31] Captain Jeremy Maxi. [7:33] Captain Maxi was integral in the [7:35] planning and operation of this academy. [7:37] He is an 18-year veteran of St. Paul [7:39] Fire and 32-year military veteran and h [7:42] has been helping run our training [7:43] division for the last six years. [7:47] training assistant and health and [7:48] wellness coordinator Megan Rossler [7:50] Turner. [7:51] Megan is a 15-year veteran firefighter [7:54] paramedic for St. Paul Fire. Megan ran [7:57] the day-to-day planning and logistics [7:59] for this academy. This is the hardest [8:01] job in any academy and she does it well [8:04] along with the other dozen duties she [8:05] has. [8:07] Captain Jeremiah Hawkwalt, FEO Nick [8:10] Vars, firefighter Sarah Rezner, [8:13] firefighter Adam Arand. [8:17] These made up the instructor cadre who [8:19] spent every minute of every day for the [8:22] last eight weeks with your loved ones. [8:25] These are the instructors that provided [8:27] the knowledge, skills, technique, [8:28] physical fitness, motivation, and maybe [8:31] a few laughs for the last eight weeks. [8:34] training staff and the academy [8:37] instructor cadre is made up of high [8:38] performers who selflessly give their [8:41] time, knowledge and experience to [8:42] prepare this next generation of [8:44] firefighters. This group along with many [8:47] others taught, mentored, motivated, [8:48] guided and worked out with the 21 [8:50] graduates graduates seated before you. [8:53] Without them, these 21 would not be as [8:55] prepared to take on any challenge put [8:57] before them as they are. Please give [8:59] these dedicated firefighters a round of [9:01] applause. [applause] [9:07] >> [applause] [9:12] [applause] [9:14] >> Today I have an answer to the question [9:16] asked of me weeks ago. Mayor Carter, [9:18] Chief Inks, we have done 10mmies in our [9:22] collective tenure, resulting in 203 [9:25] firefighters, nearly half of the [9:28] firefighters working the streets of the [9:29] city we love. We, this team, [9:33] we have prepared the next generation of [9:35] St. Paul firefighters and that is a heck [9:37] of a legacy. [9:39] I thank you both for trusting me to lead [9:41] the training division. I'm grateful to [9:43] have worked under your leadership and [9:44] with your guidance. Chief Hanks, it's my [9:46] honor to introduce you as you preside [9:48] over the graduation of your last recruit [9:50] academy. [9:52] [snorts and applause] [9:57] >> [applause] [9:58] >> That's cool. Awesome. That's great. [10:01] Thank you, Chief Baker. I appreciate [10:03] that. 41 years with the city, huh? [10:08] I don't know how they hired me at 5 [10:09] years old, but I appreciate it. So, [10:14] uh, good afternoon. My name is Butch and [10:17] I have the privilege of serving as the [10:19] fire chief of the city of St. Paul. It's [10:21] a city I grow grew up in. As Chief Baker [10:24] said, it's a city I've served for over [10:26] 40 years, and it's an honor to stand [10:29] before you today as we recognize and [10:31] celebrate the graduation of 21 [10:32] outstanding women and men who now join [10:36] the proud tradition of the St. Paul [10:38] firefighters. [10:40] Before we go further, I want to extend a [10:41] heartfelt thanks to our distinguished [10:43] guests who are with us today or who may [10:46] have sent their support. you know, your [10:48] pre your presence reaffirms your [10:51] commitment to public safety and is [10:53] something we value and appreciate very [10:54] much. Uh, thank you to Mayor Melvin [10:57] Carter. Um, our city council members [11:00] that may be here, uh, local 21 [11:02] leadership and specifically Kyle [11:03] Thornberg that are here. Um, and we also [11:06] have uh want to play or want to relay [11:09] that US Representative Betty McCullum is [11:12] un unable to make it uh make attend in [11:15] person, but did send a letter of [11:17] recognition and thank you to uh the [11:19] graduates. [11:21] Additionally, US Senator Amy Clolobashar [11:23] has a message that will be read very [11:25] shortly through this this program. Uh to [11:28] our incredible training staff, thank you [11:30] all of you. you know, you you I've just [11:33] learned that um you've trained over half [11:35] the fire department. So, that is that is [11:37] quite an accomplishment. So, um you [11:40] know, your professionalism, dedication, [11:41] and guidance have prepared each each of [11:44] these graduates to proudly wear the [11:46] badges they will receive today. Even [11:48] with an accelerated academy schedule, [11:50] you ensured they received the high [11:52] quality training expected uh to be a St. [11:54] Paul firefighter. And your work lays the [11:56] foundation for our department's future. [11:58] So, thank you. And I also want to rec [12:01] recognize our administrative support [12:03] staff. And there's just way too many [12:04] people to mention personally. Um it's [12:07] it's the behind the-scenes professionals [12:09] that are truly the backbone to our [12:12] operation, handling logistics, [12:13] scheduling, coordination, and countless [12:15] details that allowmies like this one to [12:18] run smoothly. Thank you. You know, and [12:20] today wouldn't happen without you. And [12:22] and honestly, the day-to-day operations [12:25] wouldn't happen without you. So, I I am [12:27] uh deeply grateful for your [12:28] contributions to the fire department. [12:32] Today, we're not just celebrating [12:33] graduation. We're celebrating a [12:35] commitment. A commitment from these 21 [12:37] individuals to serve with honor, to [12:39] serve with courage, and serve with [12:41] compassion [12:43] and a commitment from this department to [12:45] welcome exceptional talent from across [12:47] the region. You know, this class is [12:49] unique. They they joined us uh through a [12:52] lateral transfer process, meaning you [12:53] were you were already trained [12:55] firefighters and EMTs and paramedics [12:57] before stepping into this academy. [13:00] Your 8-week accelerated program, which [13:03] is usually completed in 14 weeks, it [13:05] demanded focus, it demanded discipline, [13:08] and it demanded professionalism. And you [13:10] delivered. [13:12] Learning the St. Paul way is is just not [13:14] an easy It's not an easy task, as it [13:16] shouldn't be. Our members are expected [13:19] to move with with with safety and [13:22] purpose on the fire ground and deliver [13:23] cutting edge EMS care at a at a volume [13:26] unmatched to any other local fire [13:28] department. We're the busiest fire EMS [13:31] department around and you have shown [13:34] that you are here to serve and the [13:36] training staff has given their blessing [13:38] that you are ready to join the ranks of [13:40] the best fire department there is. [13:44] What stands out most about this group is [13:46] the maturity, the skill, and the heart [13:48] you bring to St. Paul. You you arrived [13:50] ready to contribute on day one. And your [13:54] present your presence elevates our [13:56] department. [13:58] And I know most of you will be, you [13:59] know, begin your career, I guess, on the [14:01] B shift. Um, which is which is not I've [14:04] worked them all. So, uh, any hockey [14:06] players in the group, you you'll fit [14:08] right in. So, um I uh yeah, I'd like to [14:12] tell you a story about the B ship, but I [14:14] you know, I've worked all three. You [14:16] stick around long enough and you'll be [14:17] you'll be on all of them. So, they're [14:19] they're all good because they all work [14:20] for St. Paul Fire. [14:23] You know, with this class, uh you know, [14:25] our staffing rises um to 13 above our [14:28] authorized strength, which is just [14:30] really unheard of in the fire service. [14:32] Um, most fire departments operate in a [14:36] space where they're under their [14:38] authorized strength and we're going to [14:39] be 13 over our authorized authorized [14:42] strength. You know, it's a meaningful [14:44] accomplishment and it enhances our [14:46] operational readiness and supports the [14:48] growing needs of our community. [14:52] [sighs] [14:53] Well, now on a personal note, [14:57] this class is especially noteworthy to [14:59] me. Um, so while you begin your journey, [15:03] I'm preparing to conclude mine. [15:15] serving as the fire chief. Uh [15:18] it's really been the greatest honor [15:22] really of my life [15:25] and bringing on this next generation of [15:26] firefighters and the future leaders of [15:29] the department. [15:31] It's always been one of the most [15:32] cherished honors I've had. [15:35] I'm proud of every firefighter. You [15:37] know, there's some in the group here [15:39] that we brought onto this department. [15:41] And I and as I look at this group, the [15:43] final graduating class of my career, I [15:46] really can't help but reflect that um I [15:50] too I was once in those seats right [15:53] there 30 31 years ago. Um I didn't know [15:56] what light I had for the next 31 years. [15:59] Um but I imagine just like you, [16:04] you know, I I was just happy to be here. [16:07] Um, and I can tell you 31 years later, [16:11] I'm just happy to be here. So, I'll tell [16:14] you a quick story [16:16] and and there's a point to it. Usually [16:18] there's a point when I talk, but um [16:22] I I recently had a shoulder replacement [16:24] surgery. So, this is the first day [16:25] without a sling. Um, and I'm a hand [16:27] talker, so I'm trying not to move it. [16:29] But I would I I told my wife, [16:33] I can't look at it now. [16:38] I told my wife that I was in line to [16:41] pick up some medicine for my shoulder [16:43] and um I had a sling on and and I had my [16:45] uniform on and this young lady that was [16:48] helping me um she said she asked me she [16:52] goes, "Did you hurt yourself saving [16:55] somebody?" [16:56] And it was the first time that I thought [16:59] about yeah I did you know it was 10 [17:04] years ago we busted in a bunch of doors [17:05] to get a bunch of people out of a [17:06] burning guys were shaking their head [17:08] because they were there but um we saved [17:10] a lot of people that day but it was the [17:12] first time that it hit me that you know [17:16] I always thought of this is just my job [17:19] right it's my job [17:21] um but it's not to the people we serve [17:25] serve. Um it was the first time in 31 [17:28] years like yeah we save people. That's [17:30] what we do. Um and so [17:35] you know I ask that you you and [17:37] challenge you that you don't forget that [17:39] it's it is a job right? We get paid to [17:42] do this but it's bigger than that. It's [17:43] bigger than that to the to the people we [17:45] serve and and you do you save people's [17:48] lives. So I challenge you, you know, in [17:50] your 30 plus year career to not forget [17:53] that. [17:55] And I, you know, I also challenge you to [17:58] live out, you know, your career with our [18:00] core values of professionalism, respect, [18:03] integrity, duty, and equity every single [18:05] day, whether you're on the job or off [18:07] the job. Um, [18:10] the public trust you inherit today [18:12] really, it's been earned by generations [18:14] before you. And and one thing we can [18:17] never [18:18] break is the trust of the public. [18:21] Whether you're here or at home or [18:23] wherever you're at, when you get that [18:25] badge, you can be a St. Paul firefighter [18:27] wherever you're at. [18:30] So, you've been trained, you've been [18:31] mentored and supported, and now it's, [18:33] you know, it's your turn to do the same. [18:35] Be the firefighter who helps others [18:37] rise. Be the leader who inspires the [18:39] next generation. And be the reason [18:40] someone believes [18:42] they belong here. [18:45] you know, to the families of the [18:46] audience, um, include I can look now. [18:52] Including my wife Erica, you know, my [18:54] son Kyle's here. Um, quick story, the [18:58] the first week of my academy [19:00] 31 years ago. My son Kyle was born that [19:04] Friday. Um, I no kidding. I thought I [19:08] was going to get fired because I I left [19:09] the academy and and he was born and then [19:12] I left the hospital and went back to the [19:14] academy so I could train and um but I [19:16] was just scared I'm going to lose my job [19:18] and I didn't want to miss the my son [19:19] being born and and so and now he he [19:24] works for the second best fire [19:25] department in the state of Minnesota. [19:26] [laughter] [19:30] But he he he [19:34] makes me proud and and he all he ever [19:38] wanted to do is help people. And so, you [19:41] know, don't forget that, you know, it's [19:43] it's um [19:46] just thank you. Thank you to my wife, my [19:49] my son. Um, we just we just know that in [19:52] the fire service, [19:55] you know, every one of the families in [19:56] the and the support system here, you [19:59] know, we we know they serve, too. [20:01] They're our support system. They're [20:02] they're in every, you know, when you're [20:04] off that 24-hour shift, life doesn't [20:06] happen for the people that support you. [20:08] So, they're serving as well. And never [20:09] forget that and never stop thanking [20:12] them. [20:15] So, the graduates, welcome to the St. [20:17] Paul Fire Department. [20:19] Be proud of how far you've come and be [20:23] ready for the responsibility ahead. [20:26] You now carry the legacy of the promise [20:28] of the finest fire department there is. [20:32] May your careers be long, safe, and [20:34] impactful. [20:36] And congratulations to our newest St. [20:38] Paul firefighters. [20:41] [applause] [20:51] And now it's my um honor and and [20:53] privilege to introduce our mayor um [20:56] Mayor Melvin Carter. Thank you. [20:59] [applause] [21:07] >> Good afternoon. [21:10] >> I had to check my watch to make sure I [21:12] knew which uh greeting I was offering. [21:15] My name is Melvin Carter and for the [21:18] last eight years I've had the honor and [21:20] the privilege of serving as mayor of the [21:22] most incredible city on the planet. [21:26] And I say that [21:29] because I've gotten a chance to know [21:31] this community well. I've gotten a [21:34] chance to know the residents, the [21:36] neighbors, the children, the families, [21:38] the business leaders, and because I've [21:40] gotten a chance to know the public [21:41] servants who step up every single day to [21:44] serve this community, our first [21:47] responders, our professional staff, our [21:50] frontline staff, all across our [21:51] community. And I'm always honored for [21:54] the chance to work alongside the men and [21:57] women who work for the city of St. Paul. [22:01] I tell people every day, sometimes [22:03] multiple times a day, uh that I'm fully [22:05] aware that my job is to very heroically [22:08] sign pieces of paper and give speeches [22:12] while someone else does really, really [22:14] hard work. [22:16] And I will carry as I prepare to [22:18] transition out of this job, I will carry [22:20] with me in eternal gratitude in eternal [22:24] gratefulness uh for the men and women [22:27] who [snorts] [22:28] are the ones who carry this work forward [22:31] every single day. Chief Inks, [22:34] firefighters and paramedics, graduates, [22:37] and certainly the family and friends uh [22:40] joining us today. I want to thank you [22:42] for being here and I want to thank you [22:44] for your steadfast support of our fire [22:47] department, our broader public safety [22:49] infrastructure, and for our city. Uh, [22:51] this city is a city that raised me. I'm [22:54] the son of a police officer and a [22:57] retired teacher uh who served in public [23:00] service as well. Um, I've gotten a [23:03] chance to watch our community celebrate [23:07] incredible good times and confront [23:10] moments of crisis head on. I've gotten a [23:13] chance to connect with firefighters, [23:16] as you have kept us safe uh through uh [23:20] incredible fun festivals, as you have [23:22] stood by with a stretcher watching me [23:24] skate down the crashed ice courses in [23:27] this city. I was always wondering why [23:29] you kept the doors the bay doors open uh [23:31] as I was doing that. Um I've gotten a [23:34] chance to see you [23:37] during the height of our pandemic. [23:39] There was a time where we were put [23:41] sending out emergency aid to St. Paul [23:43] residents and businesses and we saw a [23:47] class of firefighters uh in training who [23:50] stepped forward to help us process those [23:53] applications. And I looked at that class [23:55] and I said, "Hey, listen. Thank you. I [23:58] know that this isn't exactly what you [24:00] signed up to do. And they looked at me [24:02] with a funny look and they said, "We [24:04] signed up to help people. [24:07] This is how we help people." And that [24:10] was noble and it was inspiring to me. Uh [24:13] and I think a year later I real I I [24:15] learned that they were actually getting [24:16] punished for something, [laughter] [24:19] but they did it with a um with a with a [24:23] joyful spirit. [24:25] We've also [24:27] stood together as we saw our [24:30] firefighters racing into the scene in [24:33] the civil unrest after George Floyd was [24:36] murdered. [24:38] As we saw our own firefighters [24:41] having rocks thrown at them as they [24:43] pushed forward to put out fires on one [24:47] of the most traumatic nights of in our [24:49] city's history. [24:52] I've stood I've stood with our fire [24:54] department [24:59] as just last year [25:02] we buried four children [25:05] who we lost tragically [25:09] in a fire. [25:12] I've stood with our firefighters [25:14] as our firefighters have stepped [25:16] forward, have pushed forward as our own [25:18] fire chief [25:21] put himself in harm's way to push [25:23] forward in a protest just last month to [25:28] ensure that an individual who had [25:31] endured a head wound was able to access [25:34] the medical service [25:37] that he needed. [25:40] These stories shape who we are through [25:42] it all good and bad. I've seen how [25:44] deeply we depend on one another. How [25:47] deeply we care for one another. And how [25:49] deeply we show up to support one [25:52] another. Our city's long history tells a [25:54] rich story with joy, care, heartbreak, [25:57] loss, success, failure, and everything [25:59] in between. a story of a close-knit [26:01] community that cares deeply for one [26:03] another and for the future of the city [26:04] that we share. Even when we hold [26:06] difference visions or opinions, we all [26:09] know that our city and nation are at an [26:12] inflection point. Yet, one truth remains [26:15] clear. Our community has never allowed [26:17] challenges to define us. Instead, we [26:19] define ourselves by how we respond to [26:21] them. We have never t tuned out. We've [26:24] never looked away. We've never retreated [26:26] to the comfort of inaction. We've never [26:28] chosen that path. [26:31] These efforts reflect what we have [26:33] always done, who we always are, is [26:34] doubling down on the opportunities that [26:37] emerge from every single challenge we [26:39] face. And we know that we have to do [26:40] that together. One of my proudest uh [26:42] moments or one of my proudest I think [26:45] things that we've done together over [26:46] these past eight years is uh determine [26:48] together that public safety is not just [26:50] the response of our emergency [26:52] responders, of our police officers, our [26:54] firefighters, our paramedics. that [26:56] keeping our city safe is is is the job [26:58] of all of us. That our wreck workers, [27:00] that our librarians, uh that our uh HR [27:03] staff, that our central office support [27:05] staff, we all have a role in keeping our [27:08] city safe, and we have to do it [27:09] together. Now more than ever, we must [27:11] show resilience, humility, and most [27:14] important, unity. Our mission is clear. [27:17] We provide [27:19] young people, families, and our entire [27:22] community with the opportunity to thrive [27:24] in a safe and welcoming environment for [27:27] every single one of us. [27:31] We hear a lot on the news these days [27:33] about the term resistance. [27:36] And most times when people say that [27:39] they're going to be the resistance these [27:42] days, they're expressing chief in [27:46] exasperation, [27:47] in exhaustion with what feels like hate, [27:51] with what feels like uh division, uh [27:55] what with what feels like dehumanization [27:57] that we too often turn on our [27:59] televisions and see. [28:02] I can't think of anything that's more [28:05] opposite those things than standing up [28:09] every morning, getting dressed every [28:11] morning with the conviction that any [28:14] person in this community who needs help [28:16] that we're going to race to the scene [28:18] and help them as quickly as possible, [28:20] even if it means putting ourselves in [28:22] harm's way. [28:24] You, all of you who serve this [28:28] department, you are building a stronger [28:30] world. you're building a greater world. [28:33] And one thing that I've learned from our [28:35] firefighters, and it's a simple truth, [28:38] that you cannot put out a fire. You [28:41] cannot save a life within the narrow [28:43] confines of your comfort zone. You can't [28:46] break in that door to to usher those [28:48] families to safety within the narrow [28:50] confines of your comfort zone. So, [28:53] graduates, you've chosen a hard time to [28:56] be firefighters. You've chosen one of [28:58] the hardest jobs on the planet, but [29:00] simultaneously you've chosen one of the [29:02] most trusted roles on the planet. That's [29:05] because people are used to looking to [29:07] firefighters to support. That's because [29:09] people are used to looking to [29:10] firefighters for help. But you haven't [29:12] just chosen to be a firefighter. That [29:15] wasn't hard enough for you. You chose to [29:18] be a St. Paul firefighter. You chose to [29:21] join the most innovative department on [29:23] the planet. You cho chose to join a [29:26] department that stretches itself beyond [29:28] its comfort zone. Not just when there's [29:30] a fire or when there's an emergency, but [29:32] when there's a process to innovate [29:33] around. You've chosen to be a part of a [29:36] fire department that has innovated, that [29:38] has been on the front lines, that has [29:40] decided that the way that we fought [29:41] fires a 100 years ago or 50 years ago or [29:44] even 10 years ago isn't enough for the [29:46] next fire, isn't enough for next year, [29:48] isn't enough for the next generation. [29:50] You have chosen to be a part of a fire [29:52] department. and the the chief already [29:54] said it, the the the biggest department, [29:56] the busiest department in this state, [29:58] but also the most innovative, the most [30:00] forwardinking, the most um uh uh [30:03] aggressive at building the future that [30:06] we deserve and that is an enormous [30:09] privilege and that is an enormous [30:13] responsibility that you will carry [30:15] forward. The way you move forward and [30:17] carry that responsibility from here is [30:20] the exact same way you've moved forward [30:22] and carried that responsibility to get [30:24] here. By depending on one another, by [30:27] leaning on one another, by supporting [30:29] and training and trusting one another, [30:32] by trusting and listening uh to those [30:34] who trained you, the the the the [30:36] firefighters who have joined this [30:38] department ahead of you. by making sure [30:40] that you are uh taking care of uh and [30:42] and following those best practices and [30:45] by making sure that you depend and lean [30:47] on the community of support that is [30:48] represented. This isn't your whole [30:51] community of support. Your community of [30:52] support is represented right here. The [30:55] last thing I'll say and I'll get out of [30:56] your way. [31:02] We have a legacy [31:04] of greatness, [31:06] of service, [31:09] of selflessness [31:10] in this department. [31:13] And at times [31:15] I would say our selflessness may [31:18] actually go too far. [31:21] So, as you set out to serve our [31:25] community, [31:27] as you commit yourself to being [31:30] lifesaving agents in the story of any [31:34] St. Paul resident, any St. Paul [31:36] employee, any St. Paul business who [31:37] needs it, include yourself in that [31:40] service. Include your mental health in [31:44] that service. Include your own physical [31:47] health in that service. include your [31:50] familial health in that service and [31:53] include one another in that service. [31:56] Just like you know to tap each other on [31:59] the back in a fire when you can't see to [32:01] make sure that each other is connected [32:03] and in that everyone is connected uh to [32:05] the hole that everyone is safe that [32:07] everyone has the oxygen that they need. [32:10] I challenge you with learning to tap one [32:13] another in life learning to tap one [32:16] another when you see stress. learning to [32:18] tap one another when you see mental [32:20] mental cha mental health challenges or [32:22] chemical health challenges or anything [32:24] else that requires attention. I [32:26] challenge you with protecting your own [32:29] mental health. I challenge you with [32:31] protecting your blood pressure. I [32:33] challenge you with protecting your [32:34] heart. I challenge you with protecting [32:36] your place in your family and ensuring [32:39] that by making sure that you [32:43] invest every day in your ability to be [32:47] full, your ability to be whole, your [32:49] ability to be healthy. That's step one [32:52] of being ready when the bell rings. We [32:55] know that you are ready when the bell [32:56] rings because you've been through this [32:58] training. We know that you're ready when [32:59] the bell rings because you have done uh [33:02] your fire academy. and we trust and [33:05] sleep better every single night with the [33:07] knowledge that you all are entering our [33:10] St. Paul fire service today. [33:12] Congratulations and thank you. Thank you [33:14] all. [applause] [33:24] Every day I've been mayor, Chief Butch [33:27] Inks has been our fire chief. Every day [33:30] I've been mayor, I've been dependent on [33:31] you, your expertise, your courage, your [33:35] service, your commitment to this [33:37] department. One of the things I'm [33:38] sharing about our leadership team, and [33:40] is certainly the case for Chief Butch [33:42] Inks, every single time. Every single [33:45] time I say your name, every single time [33:48] I say, "Chief, this thing was [33:49] fantastic," or, "I I really appreciate [33:52] the way this happened," or or I really [33:53] love this article that came out. Our [33:55] chief says one of your names. Our chief [33:58] says, "Oh, thank you for noticing that. [34:00] That wasn't me. That was this [34:01] firefighter. Thank you for noticing that [34:03] me. That that wasn't me. That was our [34:05] deputy chief. That that that wasn't me. [34:07] That was our captain." And so I I lauded [34:09] you because I have to say as I'm proud [34:11] of the things that we have accomplished [34:13] over the last eight years together. Uh [34:15] none of those things would be possible [34:17] without your vision, without your uh [34:19] commitment, without your uh imagination, [34:21] and without your determination to ensure [34:23] that this fire department is fully [34:25] deserving of all of the praise and [34:28] honorifics that we lo that we bestow [34:29] upon it. Please, one more round of [34:31] applause for our fire chief. [applause] [34:42] [applause] [34:50] Uh, Mayor Carter, it took me uh 10mmies [34:53] to learn not to follow you. Um, [34:57] so my apologies, Mr. Ortiz. Uh, I would [35:01] like to bring Josh Ortiz up uh [35:04] representing Amy Clolobashar's office. [35:09] >> [applause] [35:12] >> I've followed the mayor before and it's [35:14] just just not I'm not set up for [35:16] success, but that's all right. Um, [35:18] Senator Clolobashar really wished that [35:20] she could be here today. She's in [35:21] Washington DC uh taking some really [35:24] important votes today, but she asked [35:25] that I I share this message with the [35:27] graduates and the families. Thank you [35:29] for inviting me to join you for today's [35:31] celebration. Although my schedule [35:33] prevents me from being there, I want to [35:35] congratulate you, the St. Paul Fire [35:37] Academy class of 2025B. [35:40] To the graduates, today marks the end of [35:43] your training, but really it is a [35:45] beginning. From this point on, you'll be [35:47] called to put everything on the line [35:49] every time you put on that uniform. [35:51] You'll be called to run into burning [35:53] buildings while the rest of us run to [35:55] safety. When disaster strikes, be it a [35:58] flood, train derailment, or collapse of [36:00] a bridge. You will be called to serve on [36:03] the front lines of public safety. You [36:05] will answer the call every time and save [36:08] lives. To all the family, friends, and [36:11] loved ones here today, thank you. I know [36:14] this class has gone through months of [36:16] intense training and physical [36:18] conditioning, and I'm sure there have [36:20] been days when they've been exhausted [36:21] after training, but you, your support, [36:24] has given them the strength to go back [36:27] and do it all again the next day. [36:30] Firefighters put their health and lives [36:32] on the line to save others. and we must [36:35] honor their heroism. I'm glad to report [36:39] that thanks to the efforts of many [36:42] firefighters. [36:44] My bipartisan bill to expand federal [36:46] support for the families of firefighters [36:49] who pass away from service related [36:50] cancers as of about an hour ago has [36:54] passed Congress and is on its way to the [36:56] president's desk to be signed into law. [36:58] [applause] [37:06] in Washington DC. I'm committed to [37:08] supporting our brave women and men who [37:10] serve our communities as firefighters. [37:13] Thank you again for the invitation and [37:15] congratulations on joining the ranks of [37:17] the St. Paul Fire Department. I'm [37:19] honored to represent you in the United [37:21] States Senate. Sincerely, Amy [37:23] Clolobashar. Thank you. [applause] [37:33] Uh, training assistant Megan Rosler [37:35] Turner. [37:39] [applause] [37:43] Instructors, do you want to join me on [37:44] stage, [37:54] the fire service in general, and the St. [37:56] Paul Fire Department in particular is [37:58] known for its many traditions. A [38:01] relatively new tradition that started in [38:03] 2011 is a selection of a top recruit. [38:07] The top recruit award is determined by [38:09] several criteria. Academic grades, [38:12] practical skills grades, training staff [38:14] review, and a peer review process where [38:17] each member of the class ranks all other [38:19] members in consideration of test scores, [38:22] leadership, integrity, and character. [38:26] As we analyzed the numbers for this [38:28] class, it was a close competition [38:30] between several individuals who excelled [38:32] in the different criteria. [38:35] One individual did come out on top [38:37] though, and we would like to acknowledge [38:40] as the class of 2025B top recruit, [38:44] firefighter Matthew Stone. [applause] [38:50] Please join us on stage. [38:53] [applause] [39:04] Thank you. Let's take a picture. [39:19] >> Good job, buddy. Thank you, sir. [39:26] Thank you instructors. [39:30] There are a few other traditions that we [39:32] include in the graduation ceremonies. [39:34] The first is an elected class speaker. [39:37] The class elected John Ruby to speak on [39:40] their behalf. Firefighter Ruby. [40:03] friends, family, community members, [40:06] Chief Inks, administration, and our St. [40:09] Paul Fire family. Thank you for being [40:11] here today to celebrate this milestone [40:12] in our careers. We stand in front of you [40:15] today knowing that the completion of [40:16] academy doesn't mean an end but a [40:18] beginning. We realize that the scores of [40:21] men and women that have stood at the [40:22] base of the host tower completing PT and [40:24] performing drills and attempts to [40:26] perfect the craft that we are lucky [40:27] enough to call a job. We feel honored to [40:29] be a part of the history of this [40:30] department. Eight weeks ago, a group of [40:33] 21 firefighters gathered outside on the [40:35] line at the training grounds. We are [40:38] greeted by instructors who embody [40:39] professionalism, knowledge, strength, [40:42] grit, and attention to detail. [40:45] I speak for everyone in class 2025B when [40:48] I say that academy taught us more than [40:50] SOPs and EMS guidelines. It left us with [40:52] strength, determination, knowledge, [40:55] adaptability, and friendships that will [40:57] last us a lifetime. [41:00] Instructor Eer, thank you for your [41:02] example of strength, your work ethic, [41:04] and your refusal to take shortcuts. [41:06] Thank you for pushing us beyond our [41:08] limits. [41:09] Also, thank you for showing us how to [41:11] get to Orange Theory in Roseville. [41:15] Instructor Arcan, your grit to dig deep [41:17] when things got hard and to strive for [41:19] success with no excuses has inspired us [41:21] all. At times, we know your patience [41:23] with us was as thin as your hairline, [41:25] but we appreciate you. [41:33] Instructor Vars, attention to detail is [41:35] something that none of us will likely [41:37] forget. Every push-up taught us that the [41:39] little things matter. And your passion [41:41] for bathroom paper products is [41:42] unmatched. [41:45] Captain Hawkwalt, we all aspire to be [41:47] EMS providers like you, especially Cana, [41:50] who always prefers a good EMS call, and [41:52] I will always check for overhead [41:53] obstructions. [41:55] TA Rosler, your unassuming prowess in PT [41:57] and training structures with inspiration [41:59] and fear. When TA Rosler shows up [42:01] unexpectedly at station 8 in workout [42:03] clothes, our hearts collectively dropped [42:05] because we knew we were climbing the [42:06] point that day. Firefighter Mills, thank [42:09] you for your easing going demeanor and [42:10] sage advice. And we're sorry that [42:12] Henderson didn't give you any piggyback [42:14] rides. [42:15] Chief Baker, Captain Massie, and the [42:17] rest of the administration, thank you [42:19] for the opportunity to be a part of this [42:20] academy and for the hours of work you [42:22] all put in behind the scenes for our [42:23] success. [42:26] Kate, thank you for the delicious [42:28] treats. The extra calories provided us [42:30] you provided carried us through on some [42:32] hard days. When you go through academy, [42:34] we will not forget that. Finally, we'd [42:37] like to thank our families for their [42:38] unwavering support over these last eight [42:39] weeks. During Academy, I commuted from [42:42] Watertown, South Dakota to St. Paul, [42:43] while my wife raised our two boys, [42:45] worked full-time, and managed the [42:47] process of selling our home. I could not [42:49] have done this without her. As [42:51] firefighters, our commitment to this job [42:53] doesn't rest on us alone. It's a [42:55] commitment our families take on as well. [42:57] While we're often recognized and thanked [42:58] for our service, we know our spouses, [43:00] partners, childrens, and loved ones [43:02] carry a heavy load in the shadows of [43:04] those of us that wear the badge. We love [43:06] and appreciate you. As academy is over [43:09] and we begin and we all begin our [43:11] careers joining the crews on the [43:12] streets, we feel prepared and confident [43:13] that our training has laid a solid [43:15] foundation for serving the people of St. [43:17] Paul. As we close this first chapter of [43:19] our careers, we'd like to say in [43:21] finality, we class 2025B are ready to [43:23] protect the communities of St. Paul and [43:25] serve the people with skill, dedication, [43:27] and compassion. We know we are nothing [43:29] if not adaptable, and we will wear these [43:31] badges with honor and pride as we [43:33] perform our duties for the people. Thank [43:35] you. [applause] [43:47] Thank you, firefighter Ruby. [43:53] The next tradition we would like to [43:54] share with you is the class video. The [43:57] class video is meant to give you an idea [43:59] of some of the things your friend or [44:01] loved one has experienced as part of [44:03] their academy. [44:08] Heat. Heat. [44:24] [music] [44:27] Heat. Heat. [44:32] [music] [44:40] [music] [44:45] [music] [44:53] >> [music] [44:59] [music] [45:05] [music] [45:12] [music] [45:19] >> Heat Heat [45:20] >> [music] [45:26] [music] [45:34] [music] [45:35] >> up [45:41] [music] here. [45:45] Heat. [45:49] [music] [45:57] [music] [46:02] Heat. [46:04] [music] [46:08] Heat. [46:11] [music] [46:21] [music] [46:24] Heat. [46:28] [music] [46:31] Heat. [46:35] [music] [46:40] [music] [46:49] [music] [46:55] [music] [47:08] >> [music] [47:11] >> Heat. [47:12] Heat. [47:18] [music] [47:21] Heat. Heat. [47:24] [music] [47:35] [music] [47:44] Heat. [47:52] [music] [48:04] Heat. [48:21] >> [music] [48:28] [music] [48:30] >> Heat. Hey, heat. Hey, heat. [48:38] >> [music] [48:44] [music] [48:46] >> Heat. [48:51] [music] [48:52] Heat. [48:58] Heat. [49:00] [music] [49:11] Heat. [49:18] [music] [49:20] Heat. Heat. [49:23] [music] [49:27] [music] [49:35] [music] [49:42] Heat. [music] [49:50] [music] [49:56] [music] [49:59] Heat. [50:06] Yeah. [50:22] [music] [50:27] Heat. [music] [50:31] Heat. Heat. [50:38] [music] [50:47] [music] [51:09] Heat. Heat. [music] [51:18] >> [music] [51:29] >> Heat. [51:32] Heat. [51:51] >> [music] [51:58] >> Heat. Heat. [52:16] >> [music] [52:22] >> Heat. Heat. [52:50] Heat. Hey. Hey. Hey. [52:52] [music] [52:54] Heat. Heat. [53:13] [music] [53:17] Heat. Heat. [53:40] Heat. Heat. [54:02] [music] [54:22] 2025. [54:23] Prepare to stand. Stand. [54:27] Prepare to face left face. [54:32] forward. [55:07] Class of 2025 Bravo. Prepare to face. [55:12] Prepare to take your seats. Take your [55:14] seats. [55:33] >> [music] [55:49] >> Looking out at the road rushing under my [55:52] wheels. [music] [55:56] Looking back at the years [music] gone [55:58] by like so many so [56:03] [music] [56:04] I was 17. [56:10] I don't [music] know where I'm running [56:18] on empty. [56:21] [music] [56:27] [music and singing] [56:31] Got to do what [music] you can just to [56:33] keep your love alive. [56:38] Try [music] not to confuse it with what [56:41] you do to survive. [56:44] [music] At 69 I was 21. [56:52] I don't know where this road [57:03] [music] [57:07] into the sun. [57:16] [music] [57:30] >> [music] [57:34] >> Everyone I know, [57:38] everywhere I [music] go, [57:41] people need some reason to I don't know [57:46] about anyone. [music] with me. Cuz if it [57:49] takes all night, [57:52] [music] that'll [singing] be all right. [57:55] If I can get you to smile [music] before [57:58] I leave. [58:03] Looking [music] out at the road rushing [58:05] under my wheel. [58:10] I don't [music] know how to tell you all [58:12] just [singing] how crazy this life [58:14] feels. [58:17] Look around for the friends that I used [58:19] to turn to the corner. [58:24] Look [music] into your eyes. [58:41] behind. [music] [58:45] Honey, you me [58:48] you look so [58:52] I love to stick around, but I'm running [58:54] behind. [58:58] Oh no, [music] you know I don't even [59:00] know [singing] what I'm hoping to find. [59:04] [music] [59:07] into the sun. [59:11] [music] [59:18] [music] [59:19] Heat. [59:31] Heat. [59:42] [music] [59:47] [music] [59:48] Heat. [59:54] Heat. [60:00] [music] [60:14] [music] [60:22] Heat. [music] [60:24] We sweated out [singing] on the streets [60:26] of a runaway American dream. [music] At [60:30] night we wrecked the mansions of glory [60:33] and suicide machines [60:36] sprung from cages on highway none wheel [60:40] fuel injector stepping out over the [60:43] line. [60:45] Oh [music] [60:46] baby this town rips the bones from your [60:49] back. It's a death trap. It's a suicide [60:52] rap. We got [music] to get up while [60:54] we're young cuz trans like us, baby. We [60:58] were born to run. [61:05] Yes. [music] [61:11] [music] When you let me in, I [singing] [61:14] want to be your friend. I want to guard [61:16] your dreams and visions. Just wrap your [61:19] legs around these velvet ribs and strap [61:22] your hands across my engines. Together [61:25] [music] we could break this draft. We're [61:28] rock till we drop. Baby, we'll [music] [61:31] never go back. [61:35] You walk with me out on the [music] wild [61:38] cuz baby I'm just a scared ride, but I [61:42] got to know how it feels. [music] [61:44] I want to know what is wild. Heat. Heat. [61:46] Heat. [61:56] Heat. Heat. [62:14] >> [music] [62:20] [music] [62:20] >> Beyond the palace, he sees [62:24] scream down the boulevard. [62:27] Girls comb [music] their hands and give [62:29] you and boys try to look so hard. The [62:34] amusement park ride [music] [62:37] kids are home on the beach in the m. I [62:40] want to die with me on the street [62:43] tonight [music] and a never lasting [62:45] kiss. [62:50] [music] [62:56] [music] [63:01] [music] [63:07] >> [music] [63:14] >> The [music] highways down was broken. [63:16] Here my last chance [63:20] [music] [63:27] together. We [music] can live with the [63:29] savior cuz I love you with all the [63:32] madness in my soul. [63:36] Oh, someday girl, [music] [63:38] I don't know when we're going to get to [63:41] that place. We really want to blow the [63:44] smoke [music] in the sun. But till it [63:47] dance like us, baby, we were born to [63:53] honey. Trans like us. [music] [63:55] Baby, we were born to run. [63:59] Come on. We need friends like us. [64:02] [music] We were born to [64:13] [music] [64:18] >> [music] [64:22] >> Heat. Heat. [music] [64:30] [music] [64:35] standing [music] here beside you. Want [64:38] so much to give you this [singing] love [64:41] in my heart that I'm feeling [music] for [64:44] you. [64:46] See, we're crazy. I don't care about [64:50] [music] Put your hands in my hand, baby. [64:53] Don't ever look back at the world [64:56] [music] around us just fall apart. [65:01] Maybe [music] we can make it if we're [65:03] hard to hard [65:06] and we can build this thing [music] [65:09] together. Standing strong forever. [65:13] Nothing's going to stop us now. [65:17] This [music] world [65:20] we still have each other. Nothing's [65:23] going to [music] stop us. [65:30] >> [music] [65:32] [applause] [65:47] >> If that piqued anyone's interest, uh, [65:49] we'll be taking applications at the [65:51] beginning of next year. So, [65:59] All right, the next tradition within the [66:01] recruit academy graduation ceremony, [66:03] which is new this year, we are going to [66:06] recognize a graduate who embodies one of [66:08] the goals of the city. [66:11] Firefighter Sarah Rezner, will you join [66:13] me up here? [66:15] And Chief Martha Feck, I don't believe [66:18] she is here, but if you're out there, [66:20] come up here, too. [66:24] At SPFD, we endeavor to have a [66:26] department that as closely as possible [66:28] mirrors the makeup of the city we serve. [66:30] To that end, we have built a program [66:32] whose mission is to show women that the [66:35] fire service is a career opportunity for [66:37] them, help prepare them for the recruit [66:40] academy, and ultimately to be successful [66:42] as a St. Paul firefighter. [66:45] Twin Cities Female Firefighter Fitness [66:47] or TCF3 is a group of our very own [66:50] female firefighters, many of whom are in [66:53] the audience currently showing their [66:55] support to this new firefighter. TCF3 [66:58] trainers, if you're in the audience, [66:59] will you please stand? [67:05] TCF3's goal is to seek interested women, [67:09] show them that they are capable of doing [67:10] this job and build a community to [67:13] support them as they do. [67:16] Firefighter Rezner is the founder of [67:18] TCF3 and she and Chief Feck are the two [67:21] co-leads of the program. [67:24] We are here, they are here with me to [67:26] recognize a success story within this [67:28] academy. We have one female in this [67:30] recruit class who participated in and [67:32] found community and support from TCF3. [67:37] For her first TCF3 event, she traveled [67:39] all the way from North Dakota to join [67:40] us. Alyssa T. Schaefer, please stand. [67:48] We celebrate your hardearned success, [67:52] wish you a long and healthy career, and [67:55] welcome you to the fire service. [67:59] >> [applause] [68:08] [applause] [68:20] >> Good afternoon. My name is Captain [68:22] Jeremy Maxi. I'm the training assistant [68:24] uh one of the training assistants out of [68:25] training. Uh congratulations to the [68:27] class of 2025. Bravo. [68:30] You are sitting in the seats right now [68:31] that many people have sought and are [68:33] still seeking to be in these seats. Over [68:37] the past eight weeks, you have endured [68:38] rigorous and demanding fire academy. You [68:40] have been pushed in the classroom with [68:42] seemingly seemingly neverending lessons, [68:45] materials to digest, and tests to pass. [68:49] You have been pushed in physical [68:50] training to be in the best shape of your [68:52] life and exceed your own limits, capable [68:54] of climbing many flights of stairs and [68:57] fighting the fire at the top when you [68:58] get there. You've been pushed to adapt [69:01] and overcome when an obstacle is placed [69:03] in your path and work as a team [69:06] throughout it all. You have been pushed [69:08] and you have succeeded. [69:11] You will walk out of this academy and [69:13] this graduation with the necess [69:14] necessary skills [69:16] to save lives, save property, and help [69:19] thousands of people on what may be their [69:22] worst days of their lives. [69:24] In just a few minutes, you will be [69:26] presented with a badge signifying your [69:28] willingness to put the lives of others [69:30] before your own. You have worked hard [69:32] for this honor. The badge is not a piece [69:35] of metal. It is a symbol. A symbol that [69:37] carries an obligation to protect and [69:39] save those in need. We are not giving [69:42] you a badge. You have all earned it and [69:45] should be proud to wear it. Your [69:47] successful completion of the fire [69:48] academy is a testament to your work [69:50] ethic, your passion for the job, your [69:53] mental toughness. [69:55] It's no small accomplishment. The [69:57] firefighters [70:00] in the audience today and working on the [70:02] streets of St. Paul this very minute [70:04] take pride in being a St. Paul [70:05] firefighter. Pride in successfully [70:08] completing the same academy you all just [70:10] completed. Pride in working hard in all [70:13] facets of the job. and pride in serving [70:15] and protecting all those we come in [70:17] contact with. [70:19] Carry that pride and use it to continue [70:21] the job of being the best firefighter, [70:23] EMT, or paramedic you can. [70:26] Recruits, you are moving on to a new [70:28] chapter of your career. You are about to [70:31] be promoted to the position of [70:32] firefighter. Your challenge from today [70:35] on is to continue to grow in your [70:38] knowledge and skill, to stay fit and [70:41] capable, and to learn each day that you [70:43] come to work. [70:45] Recruits, prepare to receive your [70:47] badges. [71:00] >> [snorts] [71:10] >> Timothy Berts. [71:33] Ryan Casease. [71:58] Leif Shenander. [72:22] Gibson Estone. [72:44] Nick Forest, [73:05] Alex Goff. [73:27] Terrell Bradford [73:46] Ryan Hang. King, [74:13] Gerard Henderson, [74:33] >> [crying] [74:41] >> Reed jelly. [75:05] Victor Holden [75:31] Avery Ka. [75:58] Alex Langan. [76:22] Joe Luna. [76:46] George Rendle III. [77:11] Jonathan Ruby [77:31] >> [crying] [77:42] >> Matthew Shank [78:10] Dominic Schlepper Sure. [78:35] >> Matthew Stoneback [78:55] >> [crying] [79:05] >> Alyssa T. Schaefer [79:23] >> [snorts] [79:38] >> Kevin Withers. [80:06] Here's [80:18] the chief. All right, Chief Inks will [80:21] now administer the firefighters oath. [80:23] Thank you, Chief Inks. [80:30] Are they standing? [80:33] Recruits, please stand. Raise [80:39] your right hand. Repeat after me. I [80:43] state your name. [80:46] >> Solemnly swear to uphold the [80:47] Constitution of the United States. [80:50] >> Swear to uphold the Constitution of the [80:52] United States, [80:53] >> that of the state of Minnesota [80:55] >> that of the state of Minnesota, [80:57] >> all ordinances of the city of St. Paul, [81:00] >> all ordinances of the city of St. Paul [81:02] >> and the rules and regulations of this [81:04] department. [81:05] >> And the rules and regulations of this [81:07] department. [81:08] >> I will strive to maintain [81:10] >> I will strive to maintain [81:12] >> a spirit of teamwork and cooperation. [81:15] >> Spirit of teamwork and cooperation [81:17] >> with all personnel [81:19] >> with all personnel. [81:21] >> I will seek to give only the highest [81:23] example [81:24] >> I will seek to give only the highest [81:26] example [81:27] >> of honesty, integrity, and good [81:29] citizenship. [81:31] of honesty, integrity, and good [81:33] citizenship. [81:34] >> I understand my behavior on and off duty [81:37] >> I understand my behavior on and off duty [81:40] >> affects the reputation of all [81:42] firefighters. [81:44] >> Affects the reputation of all [81:45] firefighters. [81:47] >> I will at all times uphold the highest [81:49] standard [81:50] >> I will uphold the highest standard [81:53] >> of a professional firefighter [81:55] >> of a professional firefighter [81:57] >> and the proud traditions of the St. Paul [81:59] Fire Department. and the proud [82:01] traditions of St. Paul Fire Department. [82:04] >> Ladies and gentlemen, I'd like to [82:05] present the class of 2025. [82:08] [applause] [82:12] [applause] [82:22] [applause] [82:31] >> [applause] [82:35] >> Apparently, I'm supposed to tell you to [82:36] sit down now, but have a seat. [82:42] >> So, receiving your badge and and pinning [82:44] it on for the first time carries a lot [82:46] of symbolism and has been an honor that [82:49] each recruit bestows upon someone [82:51] meaningful in their lives. And we have [82:53] three legacies in this academy, meaning [82:55] they have had or had immediate family [82:57] members on the job. With those three and [83:01] the persons or persons you have chosen [83:04] to pin on your badge, please join us on [83:06] stage. [83:11] They can see firefighting for these [83:13] these recruits is definitely a family [83:15] affair. [83:19] First is uh Nick Forest. Nick is the son [83:22] of Neil Forest who's serving his 18th [83:24] year on the St. Paul Fire Department. [83:28] Please pin on Nick's badge. [83:42] Scott, how are you? [83:57] Joe Luna. [83:59] Joe is the son of firefighter Jose Luna, [84:02] who is in his third year of serving on [84:04] the St. Paul Fire Department. Please pin [84:07] on his badge. [84:53] Go. [84:56] Ryan Casease. Ryan is the son of Scott [85:00] Casease. Uh, and Scott and I went [85:02] through this academy together [85:05] a long time ago. Um, [85:08] and Scott, uh, served, he retired after [85:10] serving 30 years of service with us in [85:14] St. Paul Fire Department. And, uh, Chief [85:16] Case, please pin on his badge. [85:43] Round of applause. [85:45] [applause] [85:53] I want to uh just remind everyone, you [85:55] know, at the conclusion of our ceremony, [85:57] you know, you're all everyone's welcome [85:58] to come up and take pictures um and and [86:01] pin on the badges and take pictures as [86:03] you do that. And then um you know, on [86:05] behalf of the St. Paul Fire Department, [86:07] we really wish you a long and safe and [86:10] successful career. And welcome to St. [86:12] Paul Fire Department. [applause] [86:23] >> [applause] [86:24] >> That concludes our ceremony. Thank you [86:26] all for coming.