Columbia, SC (WLTX) - The Columbia Fire Department is starting the New Year with 23 new recruits.
The department held their graduation Friday night at the Columbia Convention Center.
"We spent 12 hour days in 70 pounds of gear and your shoulders are killing you," said Taylor Adams.
For graduates like Adams, he says it was worth every long day, to become a Columbia firefighter.
"I worked in corporate sales before this and I wanted to do something that gives back to the community and with this job there is nothing that is more rewarding."
Knowing that her son will be rushing in to burning buildings to help save others is something that makes Taylor's mom Ashley a bit nervous.
But she and her husband Henry are very proud of what their son has accomplished.
"Its hard work, I had no idea how hard it was. But we are proud of him and the whole class," said Ashley.
"I will tell you, there are a lot of professions that my children could have chosen and I cannot think of one that is more honorable and more worthy and I am so proud of my son," said Henry.
Lindsay Mcdade is the lone woman in the class of 23; she says becoming a firefighter is something she's wanted to do since she was four years old.
"I've always wanted to serve others and the fire service is a great way to do that and meet your community," said Mcdade.
Fire Chief Aubrey Jenkins says they've been in need of new recruits to help with providing the best service for Columbia and Richland County.
"We are very proud and it is important for these recruits to become apart of this family and also to want to serve their community," said Jenkins.
