New York, N.Y. — August 13 — The New York City Fire Department held a graduation and promotion ceremony Thursday at Queens College–Colden Auditorium in Flushing, welcoming 124 new probationary EMTs and recognizing EMS members moving into new ranks.

The ceremony included 58 EMTs promoted to paramedic and two paramedics promoted to lieutenant. The newly graduated and promoted members will be assigned to units throughout New York City.

Chief of EMS Operations Paul Miano said the ceremony recognized members beginning their careers, paramedics accepting additional responsibility and EMS officers moving into leadership positions.

At the FDNY EMS Academy, the 124 probationary EMTs received instruction in CPR, medical and trauma assessments, oxygen and breathing techniques, treating fractures and hypotension, spinal immobilization, emergency deliveries, and emergency vehicle operations. Through the FDNY Paramedic Basic Program, recently promoted paramedics conducted field rotations, clinical internships in hospitals, and classroom instruction.

Before the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks, this class of probationary EMTs was the last to graduate. Before starting their careers, the students visited the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in Manhattan, according to FDNY.

FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore said the new lieutenants will take on leadership roles within the department, while the new paramedics and EMTs will begin serving patients across the five boroughs.

One of the new probationary EMTs, Diana Cothias, was highlighted by FDNY after graduating. Cothias previously survived an earthquake in Haiti as a child and said the experience of being helped by first responders influenced her decision to enter emergency medical service.

The new members now begin their assignments with FDNY EMS as the department prepares to mark 25 years since September 11, 2001.