The Chattanooga Fire Department last week started a new fire academy. Most of the 27 new recruits are from this area, but others came from as far as California, Wisconsin, and Florida to start their careers at Chattanooga firefighters. The recruits will go through a tough six-and-a-half months of rigorous mental and physical training, including instruction on fire suppression, vehicle extrication, hazardous materials, and other related disciplines. The firefighters must also be EMT-IV certified to be a Chattanooga firefighter. If they successfully complete the tests and physical fitness training, they will graduate on Sept. 5, 2014. Chattanooga Fire Chief Lamar Flint is on the far left and Training Chief Phillip Hyman is on the far right. (Photo provided)