Trenton firefighter follows her father’s footsteps
TRENTON, N.J. (PIX11) — – In the blink of an eye, a report of a structure fire sends Trenton Fire Department’s Engine 10 into action. Firefighter Natasha Rivera is on board, ready to help someone who could be in danger.
“It’s what I chose to do,” said Rivera, “and I love it.”
Service runs in her blood. She’s the daughter of a firefighter who made the ultimate sacrifice.
On Feb. 9, 2009, Trenton Firefighter Manuel Rivera Sr. was rescuing a victim from a burning building. Moments after climbing down his ladder, he collapsed. A few weeks later, he passed away.
His spirit lives on as Natasha continues her father’s legacy of service to Trenton’s nearly 90,000 residents.
“Following his footsteps, that was a big part of it,” said Rivera, “but I also like to help my community and also, being a female firefighter, I saw that I was a good inspiration.”
A career firefighter, her service is also her livelihood. But before anyone wears the badge, it has to be earned.
Inside the Trenton Fire and Emergency Services Fire Academy, bravery, toughness and leadership are tested during four grueling months of high-level training.
“I want to be a firefighter because my whole life I’ve loved helping people,” recruit Deandre Santos of Ewing.
“Be a part of something bigger than just me, than just a job; I want to impact people’s lives,” said recruit Kyree Stokes of Trenton.
“I’m ready to save; I’m ready to work for my community,” said recruit Elizabeth Budge of Ewing.
Recruit Jerry Garcia came to the United States from Costa Rica when he was 15. He’s served in the Army for the last eight years. Now, he’s looking to serve his city.
“Sky’s the limit,” said Garcia. “I want to continue giving back to my Country – not only my Country but my community.”
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“You may not come home that day,” said Trenton Fire Director Kenneth Douglas. “You volunteer technically to sign your name on the dotted line, the oath, that you would give your life in the protection of others. Not for the faint of heart.”
In the Trenton Fire Department, they’re together through it all. Their bond is formed when they go out on calls and every night inside the firehouse. One of TFD’s longest traditions is Friday night pizza night, which is just one example of how co-workers become family.
“Being with the guys is always a great thing,” said Trenton Fire Captain Carlos Negron. “Every night, we try to make a home-cooked meal. Just joking around and laughing, just watching our kids grow and sharing pictures and sharing their accomplishments with each other, it’s a very family-oriented feeling in the firehouse, which is great.”
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