Graduation of Altmann Recruit Class

The St. Louis Fire Department Honor Guard opens the Graduation Ceremony with the presentation of colors.

Photo by Cathy Smentkowski

Emcee Battalion Chief Michael Richardson welcomes everyone.

Photo by Cathy Smentkowski

Public Safety Director Charlene Deeken addresses the recruit class.  'Firefighters make countless contributions and sacrifices for their fellow citizens, and I thank you for taking up the challenge of protecting the lives of all St. Louisans from the threat of fire, all at the daily risk of serious injury to yourself.  I wish you well in your career with the department.'

Photo by Cathy Smentkowski

Class Valedictorian Nicholas Becherer thanks the great instructors and tells how he and his classmates are honored to serve this community.

Photo by Cathy Smentkowski

St. Louis Fire Chief Dennis Jenkerson (l) congratulates new Firefighter Jesse Jackson during the Presentation of Helmets, Badges and Assignments segment of the program.

Photo by Cathy Smentkowski

Family members pin the badge on a new fire fighter during the Presentation of Helmets, Badges and Assignments segment of the ceremony.

Photo by Cathy Smentkowski

St. Louis Fire Chief Dennis Jenkerson presents our newest fire fighters.

Photo by Cathy Smentkowski

Overview of the finale of the Graduation Ceremony. Congratulations to: Fire Fighters Richard Airaghi, Nathaniel Allen, Nicholas Becherer, Thomas Boudreau, Andrew Callis, Christian Clark, Paul Clark, Christopher Donelly, Brian Franceschi, Gregory George, Joshua Gumpenberger, Jesse Jackson, Donald Lang, Donald Lewis, Matthew McFarland, Jamal McGilberry, Christopher Oliver, David Schulte and Earl Sherman.

Photo by Cathy Smentkowski

The Lieutenant Alfred Altmann / Firefighter Frank Altmann Recruit Class 2013 Graduation photo.  Lt. Altmann was appointed to the St. Louis Fire Department on July 12, 1895.  He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant on Oct. 1, 1899, and served the citizens until his retirement in 1932.  Firefighter Altmann was appointed to the Department on Aug. 1, 1918.  He served the until his retirement on Feb. 2, 1961.

Photo by Bill Greenblatt

Immediately following the ceremony, family and friends gathered to congratulate the graduates and celebrate this important milestone.  Pictured above:  Fire Chief Dennis Jenkerson and his granddaughter, Margot.

Photo by Cathy Smentkowski