State Fire Academy hosts junior fire camp in Weston and Capito visit

Lina Portman3 weeks ago

0 1 minute read

WESTON, W.Va (WDTV) – The West Virginia State Fire Academy National Junior Firefighter Camp received a visitor in Weston on Monday.

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore-Capito visited the academy and spoke to the campers.

The Fire Academy is operated by the West Virginia University Fire Department Extension and hosts the National Camp, which began in 2006.

The camp is used to encourage a new generation of volunteer firefighters and is the only one of its kind nationwide.

“The National Junior Firefighter Camp is incredibly unique and provides an unprecedented opportunity for our young people to learn more about what it takes to become a firefighter. I have long advocated for resources for our fire departments as a member and past chairman of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, and I will continue to ensure they have the support needed to do their jobs in safely,” Capito said.

Mark Lambert, WVU Fire Department Extension director, said that in the 10 years he was there, Capito was the first U.S. or state official they visited and that he was happy to show her around and allow her to meet the campers.

“I hope this camp helps inspire the next generation of firefighters, paramedics and police officers here in West Virginia,” Lambert said.