Jersey City has ‘battlefield promotion’ for 6 newly sworn in firefighters

By John Heinis/Hudson County View

These recruits have been helping Jersey City at the city’s two COVID-10 testing sites to facilitate getting thousands of residents tested in the interest of reducing the spread of the virus.

“It’s in these times of crisis that often the true heroes shine through, and these new graduates have already been on the frontlines helping Jersey City to get through this pandemic,” Mayor Steven Fulop said in a statement.

“I have no doubt they will continue to contribute to the betterment of our community for years to come.” He also wrote on his Facebook page that he considers it a “battlefield promotion.”

Since Mayor Fulop took office, a total of 252 new firefighters have been hired. This latest class of firefighters to take the oath of office marks the Department’s twelfth sworn class since 2013.

The new graduates have passed all state tests required to become a firefighter. While Jersey City also requires an additional EMT test, due to the State of Emergency the EMT testing is currently unavailable.

In the interim, the new graduates will be placed on regular shifts in their firehouses to help increase public safety efforts and will be required to pass the EMT exam once it becomes available again.

“These new graduates deserve to be recognized for not backing down from their commitment to protect their community despite the current environment we’re all faced with,” added Public Safety Director James Shea.

“They have undergone the rigorous training necessary to be a part of this great department, and I know they’re more than ready to help us on the frontlines as we get through the current crisis and set out to continue our efforts in expanding public safety citywide.”