Fireside Chats

Publisher - DCC, CR Volume No.1 Issue No.1 Date - 1/2007

Program History

Explorer Post #343 was started in October of 2005. It honors the firefighters who lost their lives in 9/11. It originally began with fourteen members but was left with eleven very dedicated members. The Pueblo Fire Explorer Program is now one of the largest Explorer Programs in Colorado, with eleven veteran Explorers and fifteen new Explorers. This program’s intent is to offer young adults real-life experiences, training and exposure to career opportunities available in the Fire and EMS Service.

The veteran Explorers have experienced something that people don’t get to do unless they become a firefighter. From using the “ Jaws of Life” to cut up cars in the Extrication class, to repelling out of a four story window in High Angle Rescue, even putting out a fire in the burn room with full turnout gear. Of those eleven members, seven are ride-authorized for the ride academy. All are certified in CPR and Medical First Responder and will get the opportunity to go on call with the firefighters. This program is in its second year run and we hope it will continue with its great success.

Special Thanks

May we take this opportunity to thank all the advisors who have helped make this program successful. The experience has been invaluable and will serve us well in the future. Thank you very much!

Promotions

Michael A. Ragulsky was promoted from Explorer to Explorer Chief

Alicia M. Cabrera was promoted from Explorer to Explorer Deputy Chief

Brian E. Laut was promoted from Explorer to Explorer Training Chief

Cody Smith was promoted from Explorer to Explorer Captain (Company 1)

Sarah Obert was promoted from Explorer to Explorer Captain (Company 2)

Maggie Schleifer was promoted from Explorer to Explorer Captain (Company 3)

Gwen VanEtten was promoted from Explorer to Explorer Captain (Company 4)

Ezyk Oloson was promoted from Explorer to Explorer Captain (Company 5)