Led by Training Chief Joshua Anderson, the week-long academy challenged participants through intensive leadership training, scenario-based decision-making, and command-level exercises designed to prepare current and aspiring company officers for the responsibilities of leading crews in high-risk, rapidly evolving environments.

Throughout the program, students strengthened critical skills in incident command, risk management, communication, accountability, and tactical leadership — reinforcing the role of the company officer as the foundation of fireground safety and organizational culture.

The Company Officer Academy has continued to grow in both scope and reputation, drawing interest from departments across the Southeast, including Tennessee and North Carolina. Now in its fourth iteration, the program reflects Chatham County Fire Department’s commitment to developing confident, capable leaders prepared to serve both their crews and the community.

Graduates demonstrated dedication, professionalism, and a commitment to continuous improvement throughout the demanding training week, culminating in a graduation ceremony recognizing their achievement and readiness to take on expanded leadership responsibilities.

“The company officer plays a critical role in every response,” said Training Chief Joshua Anderson. “These graduates have demonstrated the knowledge, discipline, and leadership necessary to guide their crews safely and effectively.”

Graduates include:

Chatham County Fire

Lt. Bryon LaClair

Lt. Lars Lee

Ronald Perry

Garrett Williams

Henry Pham

Garden City Fire Rescue

Joshua Banks

Cason Douberly

Liberty County Fire Rescue

Ryan Caronongan

Jesup Fire Department

Jacob Lyle

Effingham County Fire rescue

Michael Jones Jr.

Cleveland Tennessee Fire Department

Clayton Sneed

Bryan County Fire Rescue

Casey Watson

As these 12 firefighters return to their assignments, they carry forward enhanced leadership skills and a shared responsibility to uphold the department’s mission, values, and commitment to service.

Special thanks to the instructor staff, Pooler Fire Rescue Training Chief Ian Schulte, Hardeeville Fire Lt. Tyler Voz, CCFD Captains John-William Farrell, Andrew Ulmer, Jonathan Campbell, Alec Wogoman, Garden City Fire Rescue Captain Michael Gordon, Battalion Chief Jordan Johnson.