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Local Young Hero: Emily Vance

Following in the footsteps of her father, Assistant Fire Chief John Vance, sixteen-year-old Emily Vance began volunteering with Prospect’s Junior Cadets at the age of thirteen. Despite being hesitant about joining such a demanding and unique community, Vance has flourished and achieved great success of being named Third Lieutenant.

Meeting every Wednesday, Vance and the other cadets are taught by volunteer firefighters John Vance, Dylan Sloss, Tyler Sloss, Matt Deaven, John O’Dea, Brendan Gilbert, Ian Lis, and Matt Comeau. The activities and drills they are taught help build communication skills, confidence, teamwork skills, and physical endurance. Vance is grateful for the opportunities the program has given her. 

She has performed in many obstacle courses and competitions while wearing a real fire turnout. At first, Vance felt claustrophobic in her uniform and oxygen mask, but as she continued to wear it, she became more accustomed to the heavy material.

The obstacles are designed to test the cadets abilities in tense situations and train them in case they want to pursue being a firefighter as an adult. If Vance decides to continue volunteering at the Prospect Fire Department after her cadet training is over, she will be full of knowledge and more likely to earn her certification sooner and easier than others. 

The cadets frequently join together on weekends to volunteer around the community. Just this year, Vance participated in the Memorial and Christmas Day Parades, Prospect Pumpkin Festival, saluting fallen soldiers at their burial sights, fire prevention training for local children, Halloween activities, and the Ladies Auxiliary Breakfast.

Vance recalls feeling unheard and awkward during the first few months of being in the cadets; however, as time went on, Vance started to become more comfortable and saw her fellow cadets as a second family. 

“We are all one big family,” said Vance.

Over the past three years, Vance has matured and learned to be grateful for all she has because of the stories she hears and the simulations she has participated in. Overall, Vance is thankful for the opportunities the cadet program has given her and looks forward to the rest of her time at the Prospect Fire Department. 

Gianna Costanzo

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