Jersey City, N.J.   For the first time in recent memory, this city held a combination promotional and graduation for new firefighters at a crowded City Hall on December 10^th. 

The promotions included one deputy chief, four battalion chiefs, six captains twenty-three probationary firefighters.  

Chief of Department Jack Johnson addressed the new recruits and told them , “You are part of the family, now.”  There are 685 uniformed members of that family.  He added that retired members, are also part of the family. “Don't forget those who came before us.” “This is not a job, but a noble calling.”   

Chief Johnson, who has 31-years of service, added, “ You need each other to protect each other and, most of all, protect the citizens of this city.”   

Mayor Steven M. Fulop administered the Oath of Office to the new recruits and the promoted members.  Jason Kane was promoted to deputy chief.  New battalion chiefs are Michael Mandriota, Miguel Rios, Joseph K. Menendez and Greg Fuehrer.  Promoted to captain were Anthony Montagne, Christopher Pittaro, Jordon Lang, Nicholas Andreula, Herman Ortez and Matthew Finnerty.  

The new firefighters are: Bela Vaszlavki, Jr., Nicolas Monroig, Michael May, Isaiah Mateo, Julian Mena, Paul Policastro, Adalberto Colon, Jason Langevin, Tyree Campbell, Jonathan Veintimilla, Dominic Mancini, Sean Verdi, Jr., Drew Martucci, Aiden Pena, Peter Tevis, Emily Ruiz, Nikolas Devoe, Dominic Raggaelli, Rudolfo Torres, Xavier Zeno Pena, Elian Valdivia, Dillon Tyler and Malik Madison.  

Chief Johnson added, “I appreciate and love every one of you.”