ST. CROIX, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – On Wednesday, June 4, 2025, the Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services (VIFEMS) proudly held the commencement exercise for Class 2024-1 “Vermilions” at Government House, St. Croix. The ceremony celebrated twelve new Firefighter-EMTs who successfully completed their training, highlighting the department’s continued growth and commitment to public safety throughout the territory.
This graduating class represents a historic milestone as the first cohort in the Virgin Islands to complete the Firefighter-EMT training program under the unified VIFEMS structure, since the 2022 merger of fire and emergency medical services. The intensive nine-month program, which began in September 2024, challenged recruits both mentally and physically through fire suppression drills, emergency medical response training, hazardous materials operations, and rigorous physical conditioning.
Following the completion of their training, the new Firefighter-EMTs — Khalia Baptiste, Paul Bermudez Jr., Mahlik Christian, Anthony Griffin, Gareem Nicholas, Tyrel Perez, Jennell Petersen, Aaron Phillips, Kiahn Rivera, Jameelah Williams, Jendayi Williams, and Nicholas Wilson — took the oath of office administered by The Honorable Harold W. L. Willocks, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Virgin Islands. Each graduate also received their badge during the official pinning ceremony conducted by VIFEMS leadership.
“Becoming a Firefighter-EMT is more than a job — it’s a calling,” said VIFEMS Director Antonio O. Stevens. “Class 2024-1, the Vermilions, have demonstrated the courage, discipline, and dedication that define our agency. We are proud to welcome twelve new members who are ready to serve their community with honor.”
In attendance was the Honorable Tregenza A. Roach, Esq., Lieutenant Governor of the Virgin Islands, who delivered inspiring remarks on behalf of the Office of the Governor, offering congratulations and words of encouragement to the graduates.
The Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services congratulates Class 2024-1, the Vermilions, on their achievement and warmly welcomes them to the department