EASTHAMPTON — The city’s newest firefighter, 24-year-old Robert Dragon, was sworn in Thursday, but for him, the job is nothing new.
He’s been a firefighter for the U.S. Air Force for six years stationed at the Barnes Air National Guard Base in Westfield. He enlisted shortly after he graduated Hampshire Regional High School in 2011.
Over the past year, he has worked on-call at the Easthampton and Southampton fire departments. On one call in Southampton this summer, Dragon assisted Capt. Pat Eline resuscitate a man who had a heart attack.
“Many hours of preparation have taken place to reach this goal in his life,” Chief David Mottor said.
As an Air Force veteran, Mottor said he knows firsthand the training involved.
“I am thrilled to have him join our team,” he said.
On Thursday, Dragon was surrounded by family, friends and fellow firefighters.
“He stayed on the right path,” his father, Robert Dragon Jr., said.
His grandmother Connie Dragon said she’s not worried about the dangers her grandson could face out on a call.
“He’s got so much training,” she said.
Mottor said the career choice is a noble one.
“There will be sleepless nights, interrupted meals and missed family functions, but you are not alone,” Mottor said. “You are supported by some of the greatest men and women I have ever had the opportunity to work with.”
Caitlin Ashworth can be reached at cashworth@gazettenet.com.