Bedford Fire Chief David Grunes congratulated Dias and Class 282, “Firefighter Charlie Dias completed an intense nine-week training program in fire behavior, firefighting equipment and control methods, hazardous materials, vehicle extrication, and additional job-specific topics. His academy class was especially challenging as it began at the end of February just as the pandemic gained traction in Massachusetts.
“This changed the learning environment, but to the credit of the Firefighting Academy, they were able to teach these essential skills which also include team building and trust of your fellow firefighters during a crisis in a safe way. The class completed this program healthy and prepared for their future as firefighters.”
Dias has worked with the Bedford Fire Department as a paramedic and currently serves in the 772nd Military Police Company of the Massachusetts National Guard. Following the conclusion of his service in May, Dias will return to the Bedford Fire Department as a firefighter/paramedic.