New MOFD firefighters: Bill Reed, Jason Ward, Matthew Lopez, Andrew Hess, David Iman, Jeremiah Dees Photo Andy Scheck

Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD) added six firefighter/paramedics to its roster July 29, following a graduation ceremony held in the Lafayette Room at St. Mary's College. Joining MOFD are Jeremiah Dees, Andy Hess, Matt Lopez, David Iman, Bill Reed and Jason Ward.

MOFD recently conducted its own eight-week training academy, rather than sending the recruits to the more traditional 16-week academies held at various locations throughout the bay area. "By hiring experienced firefighter/paramedics, the District is able to focus the training on MOFD-specific techniques, procedures and equipment," said Fire Chief Randy Bradley. "This allows for a shorter training period which allows the District to utilize the recruits sooner to staff fire stations."

The recruits come to MOFD with a wide range of employment history, but all have extensive experience as firefighters/paramedics. Bradley said that the District is moving towards a Fire District where all of the firefighters, engineers and captains are licensed paramedics. "(When complete,) MOFD will be one of the few Districts in the state where all of the employees are paramedics and service levels will increase significantly," he said.

More than 100 people attended the ceremony, including family, past and present MOFD board members, city leaders and current MOFD firefighters. After several speeches and some good-humored ribbing the six recruits received their badges and station assignments, and Battalion Chief Stephen Healy administered the Oath of Allegiance.