MILWAUKEE — At an age many Milwaukee Firefighters are retiring from the department Hernan Galarza just got sworn in as a Milwaukee Firefighter Thursday evening. At age 51, he is the oldest recruit to successfully make it through the program.
“I have always wanted to serve. I always wanted to do something for the community,” said Galarza.
The 51-year-old went through the Milwaukee Fire Department recruit training program with men and women who are the same ages as his daughters. He is not the oldest to try, but he is the oldest to succeed.
“It’s a 16 week program so it’s a very rigorous both physical and mental and all of it in preparation to do a very dangerous, but rewarding job,” said Deputy Chief Christopher Snyder.
Hernan had no experience in firefighting. He spent his career in sales and as a small business owner. But he is very into fitness. He completed four Wisconsin Ironman competitions before he decided to try to become a firefighter.
“Right now, I’m thinking I’m crazy doing this,” said Hernandez.
But his message is you are never too old to chase a dream.
“Go for it, age is just a number. It’s all in your head. I feel like I am a 20-year-old,” said Galarza.
Galarza is one of 42 firefighters who graduated from the program Thursday evening. His first day on the job is Sunday.
