Luke Anderson, Clint Carter, Alex Hamlin, Nicholas Hruschak, Shawn Kautz, Cody Settlemire, and Blaise Thomas began orientation with the department on Monday, August 5.

Upon completion of the department's orientation, the group will head to the Tennessee Fire and Codes Academy to go through 10 rigorous weeks of Fire Recruit training.

"We are pleased to add these men and women to our team," said Fire Rescue Chief Mark Foulks. "We look forward to getting them back from rookie school, ready to serve our citizens!"

Meet the New Recruits

Luke Anderson has five years of experience as a paramedic. He enjoys motorcycles and traveling. He's most excited about learning fire principles and tactics and the family atmosphere that MFRD offers.

Clint Carter and wife Brittany are expecting their first child, a girl, at the end of September. Clint has served in the U.S. Marine Corps and is currently active with the Alabama National Guard. He enjoys hunting, fishing, CrossFit, and watching Tennessee Titans and Vols football.

He's appreciative of the opportunity to serve a city that he loves with like-minded individuals who have a passion for helping others.

Alex Hamlin and husband Bryan, have a son, Zachary (8). Alex's hobbies include: singing opera, hiking, cooking, audiobooks, and speaking German. She's looking forward to helping people, learning new skills, and making a difference in her community.

Nicholas Hruschak is married to Kayla. Nicholas has been an Army Reservist for nine years and previously was an apache mechanic and Blackhawk pilot. He enjoys outdoor activities with his wife and dog, and also loves hiking, whitewater rafting, and rock climbing. He's excited about the progression of the city and what that means for the department and the citizens of the community.

Shawn Kautz has three years' fire service experience and is a certified emergency medical responder. He enjoys cycling, hiking, and pretty much anything that requires being active or outdoors. He's looking forward to learning from experienced members of the department and becoming a valuable member to the team.

Cody Settlemire enjoys working out, sports, traveling, bodybuilding, and working out with friends/meal prepping to become a better version of himself. Cody, thankful for the opportunity to give back to the community, is looking forward to building friendships with his co-workers and doing what he can to impact the department in a positive way.

Blaise Thomas, son of MFRD Captain Terrence Thomas, is married to Skylar. He enjoys working out and rock climbing. His passion for working out started in the fourth grade. "My sister was throwing me across the room," he said jokingly. Now he does it to stay in shape. Blaise is very excited to join the MFRD team and looks forward to his first fire, getting to know his co-workers, and building his knowledge in the fire service.

Photo (L to R): Luke Anderson, Shawn Kautz, Cody Settlemire, Blaise Thomas, Alex Hamlin, Clint Carter, and Nicholas Hruschak.