The city of Foley recognized the exemplary achievements of two firefighters, David Snyder and Lee Taylor, during the City Council meeting on Jan. 16. The commendation came after the first responders successfully completed the demanding Alabama Fire College smoke diver training course in 2023.

At the meeting, Foley Public Safety Director David Wilson presented the Director's Award to Snyder and Taylor. Wilson emphasized the significance of their accomplishment, noting that fewer than 1% of state firefighters have undergone the rigorous 60-hour training program.

"This achievement is worthy, and the recipients are most deserving of the Director's Award," Wilson said.

Robert Rowland, Gulf Shores Fire Department chief of operations, worked with Foley on the program. Rowland stated that many firefighters begin preparations a year in advance, well before their application approval. The five-day course challenges participants to handle challenging conditions beyond ordinary situations.

"What this class is best for is preparing you for when that call isn't routine. It pushes you to where you probably didn't know you could go," Rowland said. "David and Lee did a tremendous job representing the Foley Fire Department and the city of Foley."

Foley Fire Chief Joey Darby emphasized the city's commitment to prioritizing training and preparation for its personnel.

“The effort that our guys go through to make sure that they train and equip themselves mentally and physically. I appreciate what they do and what we’re able to do to equip them to do that,” Darby said.

Darby further acknowledged the support from the City Council and Foley officials, citing a significant increase in the training budget the previous year.

“Last year, we had a major increase in our training budget and that is already paying dividends with a lot of classes, so I appreciate the support in doing that,” Darby said. “We’re continuing that in this budget year and that’s something we’re going to continue for years to come to focus on equipping these folks mentally and physically, so thank you for that.”

The smoke diver training course is designed to enhance firefighters' existing skills and introduce new techniques through realistic training scenarios. The Alabama Fire College's comprehensive curriculum covers various aspects of firefighting, including physically and mentally taxing exercises in different environments.

The course, conducted in full protective gear on the drill field, incorporates fitness events, drills, field evolutions and scenarios involving heat, smoke and live fire training. Before embarking on the program, each student must demonstrate proficiency in firefighter survival and rapid intervention crew techniques.