06/15/2026
Salem FFA members keep working all summer long. Connor and Colleen Montoya completed the Sullivan fire department Junior firefighter Academy. Congratulations Connor and Colleen! We are so proud of you
The Dent County Fire Protection District would like to proudly congratulate Junior Firefighters Connor Montoya and Colleen Montoya on their successful completion of the Sullivan Fire Department Junior Firefighter Academy.
Over the course of an intensive week-long academy, Connor and Colleen dedicated their time, energy, and determination to advancing their firefighting knowledge and skills. Their commitment to learning and personal development demonstrates the qualities that make the fire service strong—dedication, discipline, teamwork, and a desire to serve others.
Throughout the academy, participants were exposed to a variety of hands-on training opportunities designed to prepare the next generation of firefighters. Connor and Colleen embraced every challenge, gaining valuable experience that will help them better protect and serve their community in the future.
A special highlight of the academy was the involvement of David Eigenberg, known to millions as firefighter "Christopher Herrmann" from the television series Chicago Fire. Eigenberg took time to personally instruct academy participants, sharing his experiences and working alongside the junior firefighters throughout training evolutions. His presence provided a unique and memorable learning opportunity, inspiring these young men and women as they continue their journey in the fire service.
The Dent County Fire Protection District is extremely proud of Connor and Colleen for their accomplishment and for their dedication to becoming better firefighters. Their willingness to invest an entire week into training reflects their commitment to excellence and their passion for serving others.
We look forward to watching both Connor and Colleen continue to grow within the fire service and make a positive impact on the communities they serve.
Congratulations, Connor and Colleen, on a job well done!
A special thank you to Sullivan Fire Department for this experience. As well as the cadre of instructors from all over the US. Chief Eric Lewis and crew, we can not thank you enough for your dedication to this wonderful program. Building the next generation of smoke eaters, one class at a time.
I am extremely proud of Connor and Colleen, not just for giving up a whole week of their summer break to attend this training, but for the amount of dedication they have shown. As the Junior Firefighter Program Director for the DCFPD, these 2 remind me that there is still a servants heart in the world. As someone who personally started as a Junior Firefighter with the DCFPD, I am proud to carry on the tradition of teaching the newest generation about the love for the fire service. As Missouri State Fire Marshal Tim Bean stated "leave this place better than when you started."
-Assistant Fire Chief
Derrick Marfitt, 802