Twelve young men spent the past three days learning what it takes to serve others, and on Friday, they proudly graduated from the Chatham County Fire Department Summer Boys Camp, taking home memories, new friendships, and a greater appreciation for the fire service.

The camp provided participants with an immersive look into the life of a firefighter through hands-on activities, teamwork, leadership development, and fire safety education led by Chatham County firefighters.

Throughout the week, campers experienced many of the same skills firefighters use on the job, including:

• Vehicle extrication demonstrations and hands-on rescue challenges
• Operating a fire hose and learning the importance of "having the nozzle"
• Riding in the bucket of an aerial ladder for a firefighter's view from above
• Firefighter physical fitness and team-building exercises
• Victim rescue drags and emergency response scenarios
• Fire safety education and career exploration

The experience emphasized more than firefighting skills. Campers learned the importance of communication, discipline, responsibility, and working together under pressure—qualities that define the Chatham County Fire Department.

The department extends its sincere appreciation to the instructors who dedicated their time and expertise to making this year's camp a success:

• Captain John William Farrell
• Firefighter Devin Scott
• Firefighter Andrew Clarke
• Firefighter Ted Lupica
• Firefighter James Arnold
• Firefighter Colton Allen
• Firefighter Abraham Harris

Their mentorship helped create a memorable and inspiring experience for every camper.

As the graduates received their certificates, family members celebrated the accomplishments of the campers, who leave with a better understanding of the fire service and the commitment required to protect a community.

The Chatham County Fire Department remains committed to investing in the next generation through educational outreach programs that inspire young people to develop leadership skills, serve others, and explore careers in public safety.

Congratulations to the 12 graduates of the 2026 Chatham County Fire Summer Boys Camp! We look forward to seeing what the future holds for these outstanding young men.

Landon Carter

Chase Cunningham

Jencarlos Guzman

Luke Hunt

Leonidas Jeffrey

Aiden jester

Alexander Mora

Ayson Pilgram

Donovan Vetter

Emory Weston

Noah Whitaker