On this Throwback Thursday, we’re catching up with former Proby of the Month Ladder 103 Firefighter Swain Thomas, who is the first FDNY Captain Vernon A. Richard High School for Fire and Life Safety alum to join our fire ranks.
Since being featured on Join FDNY in 2013, Thomas has cross trained in fire operations, as well as become a chauffeur and father. He previously served at Engine 202 in Red Hook and he now works just a block away from his alma mater in East New York.
“I transferred from the engine to the truck to continue to learn more about this job. I’ve gained so much hands-on experience working as a Firefighter and I’ve used a lot of the skills in other areas of my life,” he explained. “Firefighting is a serious job, but it’s rewarding also. We train for many different situations and we do our best to help the community every day.”
In addition, Thomas has embraced the FDNY culture with his athleticism by joining the FDNY Bravest Football Team. In 2017, the former FDNY High School football star won his first championship with our semi-pro team.
“There are many opportunities and many avenues to pursue here, which also makes it a great place to work because you can have fun and enjoy the camaraderie,” he said. “My advice to everybody who is training to get this job is to stay focused on getting to know all that you can about this job. You have to be ready to learn and train at all times with this job because that helps you become a better Firefighter.”
Learn more about the FDNY High School today by clicking here.
Firefighter Swain Thomas now serves just a block away from his alma mater in East New York. In high school, he was a football star and he has continued his love for the sport by playing for the FDNY Bravest Football Team.
