NBFD Gains Nine New Firemen

Written by Kristian Santiago

Mayor James Cahill swore in nine firefighters to the New Brunswick Fire Department on Wednesday, July 10 at a swearing-in ceremony at City Hall.

Cahill opened the ceremony with congratulatory sentiments and appreciation for the new recruits.

“At a time when many communities across our state and nation are cutting fire services due to budget shortfalls, here in New Brunswick, proactive budgeting and effective management are working to maintain services and a stable level of taxation. This is why we are able to add to the ranks of the New Brunswick Fire Department and ensure the safety of our residents,” Cahill said.

The new recruits, all residents of New Brunswick, are as follows:

• Michael Blackwell, 26

• Gary Bonura, 24

Robert Rawls, Director of the New Brunswick Fire Department, showed a soft spot for this group of new recruits.

“It’s really heartwarming for me; this is a very special class. My training officer has been transitioning to another position, so I had the opportunity to do most of their training. I enjoyed watching them grow into the men that they are today. I’m so proud of this group of young firefighters,” said Rawls.

Gary Bonura, the youngest son of the recently retired firefighter Steve Bonura, credits his father for inspiring him to choose his career.

“Ever since I was five years old, and I realized what my father did, [firefighting] is the only thing I ever wanted to do. Even though I have my [bachelor’s] degree in criminal justice, being a firefighter was on my mind the entire time during college. It was either this, or nothing. I had no real plans to fall back on,” said Bonura.

Bonura’s older brother, Joseph, joins the NBFD with him.

“There is no disadvantage to having my family formerly and currently on the fire department with me. My brother and I can relate to each other. We’re going to be experiencing somewhat similar things. As for my dad, having someone there who’s already done this for 26 years is a huge benefit to me,” the younger Bonura said.

Jake Bornheimer, the most senior of the group, left his private sector, upper-management position to work for the NBFD.

“This is something I’ve wanted for a very long time for. I’ve waited for this opportunity for seven years. I’ve made a lot of changes in my life but have nothing but positive thoughts about the opportunity given to me to be a firefighter,” he said.

Gilbert Reid, a soldier of the National Guard with two deployments under his belt, said he was both excited and intimidated by his new career.

“Although I’m excited to start, I’m also intimidated. It’s a scary transition going from ‘normal’ life to once again facing danger regularly. [I am] Intimidated - yes, but definitely more excited,” he said.

Rawls said he believes the new recruits will bring positive adjustments to the department.

“In this business, one of the biggest downfalls that I see is the inability to change. [The] fire service is bred in traditions and customs. Everybody always says ‘We never do it that way’, but change is a great thing," Rawls said. "I think the best piece of advice for this group of guys is don’t be afraid of change. Life doesn’t happen by chance, it happens by change."