Columbia Fire Department’s Recruit Class 16-0 Columbia Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins announced the graduation of 32 members of the Columbia Fire Department’s Recruit Class 16-0 during a graduation ceremony held Thursday, January 12, 2017, at the Medallion Center in Columbia, South Carolina.

Chief Jenkins said, “I am very proud of these recruits—now probationary firefighters for their accomplishments and dedication— they have shown to get to this point and will expect the same as they begin their career with the Columbia Fire Department.” These 32 members began their firefighter careers last weekend as they reported to their shifts.

The Columbia Fire Department also presented awards to two recruits; the Maltese Cross Award and the Bryan P. Roberts Award. The Maltese Cross is a symbol of protection. It means the firefighter who wears this cross is willing to lay down his or her life.... just as the Crusaders sacrificed their lives for their fellow man so many years ago. The Maltese Cross is a firefighter’s badge of honor, signifying that he or she works in courage, pride and honor.

The Columbia Fire Department set-up this award to be presented to the top recruit as voted on by the class and instructors, Class 16-02 Maltese Cross recipient is Chad Price.

The Brian P. Roberts Award: in 2007, Bryan was hired to be part of the CFD Recruit Class 07-01. Unfortunately, Bryan passed away while at home, prior to the completion of recruit school. His fellow classmates dedicated the remaining portion of the recruit program to his honor. In Bryan’s honor and memory, the Columbia Fire Department set-up the Bryan P. Roberts Award in 2007. This award is presented to the recruit who has maintained the highest grade point average in each recruit school.

Class 16-02 Bryan P. Roberts recipient is Thomas Kunak.

Chief Jenkins and all the members of the Columbia Fire Department welcome:

Recruit Class 16-02
Adam Baker
Donovan Boatwright
Brian Branath
Jesse Bussey

Courtney Clowney
David cox
Michael D. Driggers
Michael T. Driggers
Christian Edwards
Patrick English
Jesse Fain
Rudolph Godfrey
Gustavo Gonzalez
William Good
Patrick Hayes
Joshua Jeter
Thomas Kunak
John Mabie
Harry Mann
Sean McCutcheon
Ethan McEndarfer
Joshua McGee
Josh Moskaitis
Duncan Oliver
Trevor Paul
Chad Price
Anthony Rembisz
William Roeder
Jaered Shelton
Chris Sword
Macy Washington
Daniel Watson