Mayor Rahm Emanuel joined Fire Commissioner Jose Santiago and officials from the Chicago Fire Department (CFD) today at a graduation ceremony honoring the 149 men and women who graduated from the Fire Academy in 2014.

“The Chicago Fire Department serves and protects the residents of our city with distinction,” said Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “I am proud to join Commissioner Santiago and the entire Chicago Fire Department in congratulating the new class of firefighters and wish them well as they continue to promote safety and provide emergency care across the City of Chicago.”

First Deputy Fire Commissioner Charles Stewart III, Chicago Firefighter’s Union Local 2 President Tom Ryan, 11th Ward Alderman James Balcer and other Chicago Fire Department officials joined Mayor Emanuel and Commissioner Santiago at Navy Pier for today’s event.

“It is an honor and a calling to serve as a firefighter,” said Fire Commissioner Jose Santiago. “I welcome these firefighters to the Chicago Fire Department and look forward to their continued service to the City of Chicago.”

This year’s 149 Chicago Fire Department cadets join a fire department that continues to aid the City of Chicago through fire prevention and emergency medical services. After entering the Fire Academy in November 2013, these graduated cadets now carry the rank of Firefighter/Paramedic. Cadets will now be assigned to firehouses throughout the City of Chicago, determined by the department’s needs.

###