Palm Coast – The Palm Coast Fire Department is pleased to announce the recent addition of six new firefighters to its team. James Allinson, Cole DiPatre, Joshua Gilliam, Izaiah Lee, Osvaldo Sene, and Doug Schenck successfully completed their new hire orientation earlier this month and began their first official shifts this week.
These new firefighters represent the most significant component of PCFD’s approach to fire protection – exceptional staff committed to the organizational culture of services. Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill expressed his excitement at the new recruits joining PFCD’s family and committed to investing in their success over a long career.
Deputy Fire Chief Bradd Clark stressed the crucial role of maintaining the department’s hard-earned reputation. “Since 1973, the Palm Coast Fire Department has built a strong reputation,” stated Clark. “Today, the responsibility lies with each and every one of us to uphold and preserve that reputation.” He encouraged the new firefighters to embrace this responsibility, understanding that they play a vital part in maintaining the department’s legacy of excellence.
About the Firefighters:
James Allinson is a native from Jacksonville, Florida, where he proudly graduated from Mandarin High School in the Class of 2019. He pursued his Firefighter and EMT certifications at First Coast Technical College. In addition to his professional pursuits, James is the proud owner of a new Doberman puppy.
Cole DiPatre, a Jacksonville, Florida native, is an alum of Nease High School, graduating as part of the Class of 2018. He attended First Coast Technical College, where he successfully obtained his certifications in Firefighting and EMT. Alongside his dedication to his career, Cole is a devoted Jacksonville Jaguars fan, steadfast in his belief that they will one day make it to the Super Bowl.
Joshua Gilliam was raised in Palm Coast and proudly graduated from the Matanzas High School Class of 2022. He successfully earned his Firefighter and EMT Certifications from Daytona State College. Over the last year he has joined the fire department’s volunteer intern program. In addition to being an accomplished Eagle Scout, Joshua possesses a deep-seated love for music, having served as the Drumline Captain at Matanzas High School for a two-year tenure.
Izaiah Lee’s is originally from Poughkeepsie, New York, but he has been a resident of Deltona since 2002. He is a proud graduate of Pine Ridge High School, having completed his education as part of the Class of 2018. Izaiah’s pursuit of professional qualifications led him to Daytona State College, where he not only acquired his Firefighter and EMT Certifications but also earned his Associate Degree.
Osvaldo Sene is originally from Homestead, Florida, but he has called Central Florida his home for the past two years. He is a proud graduate of Keys Gate High School, graduating Class of 2019. Osvaldo pursued his firefighter certification at Barry University and his EMT certification at the American Medical Academy. Currently, he is diligently working towards his Paramedic Certification at Lake Tech College. His dedication to the field is backed by prior experience in fire service with a Central Florida fire agency.
Douglas Schenck brings his wealth of experience as a firefighter, paramedic, and fire officer to our fire department, having dedicated the last 13 years of his career to serving various departments in Central Florida. His most recent roles include service at the 125th Fighter Wing in Jacksonville and serving as a Lieutenant at the Melrose Fire Department. Throughout his career, Douglas has actively participated in training new firefighters within the departments he has worked for, and he remains committed to preparing future recruits for their roles in the fire service.
For more information, contact the Palm Coast Fire Department at 386-986-2844. More photos are available on the Palm Coast Fire Department’s Facebook Page. You can also follow @PalmCoastFire on Twitter for more updates.
Stay informed with the latest news and information from the City of Palm Coast by following us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn. You can sign up for weekly updates by visiting www.palmcoastgov.com/government/city-manager/week-in-review.
