West Grove Fire Company is pleased to announce that 3 members have recently graduated the Chester County Recruit Firefighter 1 Program and one member has also completed the Basic Vehicle Rescue Technician course.

Firefighter Patrick Ahern, Firefighter Josh Oyler and Firefighter Tyler Simpson attended the 12 week fire academy at the Chester County Public Safety Training Campus starting in early February and completing their training at the end of April. Each member spent four days per week and every weekend to become nationally certified to the Firefighter 1 level. Each recruit was instructed in the basic techniques for all aspects in basic firefighting and had to exhibit proficiency in SCBA use, hose line techniques, use of ladders, extinguishing procedures and search and rescue techniques. Each recruit committed 188 hours of training while performing their normal everyday careers. The officers and members of West Grove Fire Company congratulate Firefighters Ahern, Oyler and Simspon on this achievement.

The Firefighter 1 graduation ceremony was held outdoors at the CC Public Safety Training Campus in South Coatesville on Wednesday May 2. Each graduate received their certificate from Lead Instructor Chief John DeMarco. Many family and friends were in attendance as well as fellow firefighters and members from WGFC to congratulate the graduates.

Firefighter Anthony Pontillo has successfully completed the Pennsylvania Department of Health's Basic Vehicle Rescue Technician course that was held at the Chester County Public Safety Training Center in April. Firefighter Pontillo spent 48 hours over three weekends to attain this important certification. Students learned all of the basic techniques needed to perform vehicle rescue, including vehicle hazards, vehicle stabilization and rescue tool use. The officers and members of WGFC would like to congratulate Firefighter Pontillo on this achievement.

West Grove Fire Company remains committed to training and these members attaining these certifications will make WGFC a better fire department and will enhance the level of service to our community.