Clinton, CT - The Clinton Volunteer Fire Department (CVFD) has long maintained a strong junior division, which has played a significant role in developing many of its most active members over the years. A number of current and former chiefs and officers began their service as part of this junior program, highlighting its lasting impact on leadership and membership within the department.

In recent months, the CVFD has collaborated with neighboring towns to bring junior members together for joint training focused on the fundamentals of firefighting. These initiatives are designed to strengthen early connections between departments while fostering teamwork, skills development, and camaraderie among young volunteers.

As volunteer fire services across the United States continue to face ongoing challenges in recruitment and retention, programs like these are increasingly important in sustaining a capable and committed workforce for the future.

The training sessions featured approximately 15 junior firefighters from the Clinton, Westbrook CT Fire Department, Killingworth Volunteer Fire Company, Guilford Fire Department, and Haddam Volunteer Fire Company. Participants engaged in various training evolutions, including hydrant operations, hose stretching, and hose advancement exercises.