Family Legacy

Graduation is always a special time for students and their families. This year’s Fire Rescue Graduation ceremony was a little more special for the Butler Family. As Evan Butler walked across the stage to accept his certificate, his father, Darrell Butler, a 2008 Fire Rescue graduate, watched from the audience

Wednesday, April 16, 2025 By Madeline Meadus

“My father inspired me to join the Fire Rescue program. I know it is a well-respected and rewarding career, and I want to be able to help and do good in the community,” said Evan.

With this career goal in mind, Evan knew the Fire Rescue program at the Safety and Emergency Response Training (SERT) Centre was the best option.

“I’m especially proud that Evan has chosen to follow my career path and become a firefighter,” said Darrell.

Having completed the Fire Rescue program in 2008, Darrell is now a full-time firefighter with the St. John’s Regional Fire Department. He also works work as an automotive exhaust system fabricator and installer, and mechanic.

“I’m also proud that, like me, he was voted by his peers to be the class Top Dog.”

During the ceremony, Darrell presented Evan with the Top Dog award. The title is an honour awarded to one member of the cohort and is determined based on a vote by their classmates. Those voted Top Dog exemplify positive traits such as empathy, good humour, support and encouragement.

Following graduation, Evan is continuing his studies through the Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting course—just as his father did.

This year’s Fire Rescue graduation ceremony had 15 students walk the stage to accept their certificates.

“The Fire Rescue program at the SERT Centre was an awesome experience. We learned a lot and did many training scenarios to prepare us for the real fire ground operations,” Evan said.

“I’m excited to start my career in the fire service, wherever it may take me.”