In August of 2013, an eager young hopeful approached Northwest Scott Fire Chief Donnie Adkins. He wanted to join the Junior Firefighter program. Four and a half years later, the 18 year old Jason Moore is an Arkansas Fire Training Academy graduate.
“His Dad and Mom, Terry and Rhonda Moore, were both members of NW Scott VFD…” explained Adkins. “I told him yes he could join, with conditions…” Those stipulations were that Moore maintain a “C” grade point, a pledge that his homework would come before any fire department event, and that he present copies of progress reports to be included in his department folder. That evening, it was official. Moore became a junior firefighter.
Moore attended every training class, and event, accumulating 307 astounding hours. “This young man came to me again and said chief I want to go to the fire academy to get my firefighter two and work as a career firefighter….I said sure thing,” added Adkins.
Adkins filled out all the necessary paperwork to send Moore to the Arkansas Fire Academy as a sponsorship, at no expense. “The first seven days is all first responder, which he passed…Then, he started his firefighter standards for eight weeks.”
Moore’s plan hit a snag due to COVID-19. “He contacted me and said they shutting down the academy and sending everyone home…”
In August of 2020, Moore was able to finish and graduate from the Arkansas Fire Academy. According to Chief Donnie Adkins, Moore is now awaiting a spot on a paid fire department.
