MUSCATINE, Iowa – The newest members of the Muscatine Fire Department are now on duty after completing their initial academy training last week. The three were presented their Certificates of Completion on Friday and reported to their shifts this week.
Eric Joslyn, Kyle Davis, and Ryan Amidon are the newest members of the Muscatine fire Department, reporting for their first shift of work this week.
Each of the three said they were drawn to the life of a firefighter and saw Muscatine as a great opportunity.
“I applied to several departments but Muscatine was the only one that would give me a chance,” Eric Joslyn said.
Davis was equally excited at the chance to work for the Muscatine Fire Department.
“Being from the area I know how good this department is,” Davis said. “And the more I get to know the other firefighters, the more I realize I made the right choice.”
Amidon was at Augustana College when he earned his paramedic certification with thoughts of entering medical school after graduation.
“I needed a change from the long hours and classroom work,” Amidon said. “Being a firefighter has always been on my mind so the opportunity with Muscatine came at the right time. Medicine may be in my future but right now I am very grateful to be here in Muscatine.”
All three acknowledged that the teamwork and support they have found with the Muscatine Fire Department has made them feel more comfortable in a new work environment.
“Everyone has been very encouraging and helpful with our training,” Joslyn said. “It really gives you a good feeling about being part of this team.”