Five recruits graduated from Central Oregon Coast Fire & Rescue’s 2026 Fire Academy, completing a four-month program in Waldport. The ceremony capped 136 hours of rigorous training that tested recruits in live-fire scenarios, confined spaces and high-stress drills. Elijah Gesh, 26, of Newport; John Whalen, 18, of Yachats; Jamie Mason Jr., 18, and Riley Mason, 17, both of Waldport; and Tim Torres, 40, a Coast Guard retiree, earned certificates and firefighter badges, qualifying them to volunteer with Central Coast and Newport fire departments. Chief Jamie Mason described a demanding course that included hover-like conditions, roof ventilation and search-and-rescue work, emphasizing safety, teamwork and adaptability. Several graduates plan further certifications or pursue firefighting careers, while others intend to continue serving their communities as volunteers. The program adds to a growing coast-wide effort to bolster volunteer staffing through local academies. The event underscored the community’s commitment to safety. For More Information https://lincolnchronicle.org/central-coast-firefighting-academy-finishes-four-months-of-training-with-five-graduates-now-ready-to-help/
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