Senior instructors for the WVU Extension Junior Firefighter Camp — Steve Himes, Randy James, Jim Oldaker, Brian Grieco, Matt Reed, Cathy McCray and Ross Martin — were recently recognized with the Firehouse Magazine Community Service Award, the largest national awards program of its kind dedicated to the fire service.
Now in its 20th year, the camp improves public safety education for young people and strengthens future recruitment. Located at the West Virginia State Fire Academy, the program brings more than 150 participants from across the country, ages 14-17, to Weston each year.
Senior instructors design, deliver and supervise this week-long residential training experience for junior firefighters, combining hands-on skills with leadership development. Collectively, these instructors have donated more than 2,500 hours of service to the program over the past 15 years.
During the week, campers receive instruction in firefighting fundamentals, emergency medical awareness, risk reduction and teamwork. Many graduates go on to become volunteer or career firefighters, EMS providers or other public safety professionals.