Huntsville Fire & Rescue celebrates graduation of 60th Cadet Class
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Huntsville Fire & Rescue (HFR) kicked off the Independence Day weekend in a special way, celebrating the graduation of the 60th Cadet Class and pinning firefighter badges on 18 graduates.
This cadet class also had the distinction of having no firefighter candidates drop out of the grueling academy training program.

“This is an exceptional class,” HFR Chief Howard McFarlen said. “To have no candidates drop out of the academy is almost unheard of and it speaks to the quality of recruits eager to serve Huntsville residents and deliver the highest level of protection and care. We’re proud of every graduating class but this is truly a special group.”
The graduates will now receive station assignments and begin working shifts as firefighters even as training continues.
Cadet Class 60:
Dominic Asmann Charles Nunley
Owen Boatwright Braxton Rankins
Carl Britton Liam Robinson
Rudy Cooper Madeline Russell
Kimo Edwards Luke Salvail
Elijah Holbrooks Nicholas Sharp
Levi Lang Justin Walters
Brett McAlister Cody Whitt
Jose Mendoza-Gomez Josh Wilson
City Administrator John Hamilton administered the firefighter’s oath to the cadets.
“Congratulations to the 60th Cadet Class of Huntsville Fire & Rescue,” Mayor Tommy Battle said. “Public safety is a critical part of the City’s infrastructure and is part of what makes Huntsville a great place to work, live and raise a family. I also applaud the tremendous work by the HFR training staff in pushing these cadets to be their best.”
The HFR training staff for the 60th Cadet Class: Training Chief Norm McKelvey, EMS Coordinator Thomas Toone Jr., Capt. Stephanie Pinto, Capt. Adam Sisk, Capt. Mike Mahoney, Driver Eric Weatherford, Driver Evan Yother, Firefighter Jared S. Barnes, Firefighter Blake Millican.
“The passion our training staff has for preparing the next generation of firefighters is unparalleled,” Chief McFarlen said. “Their experience and knowledge are an invaluable asset to our new firefighters. I could not be prouder of our training staff.”