The Los Alamos Fire Department (LAFD) Recruit Academy Class #31 graduation ceremony was held this morning at Crossroads Bible Church at 97 East Road. The 14 graduates include Michael Antonio Archuleta, Jevon Baker, Nathan Blim, Andrew Brooks, Cameron Conway, Jace Cundiff, Gage Dain, Carlos Duran, Tobin Harold, Ray Macias, Adam Steven Paz, Jr., Dante Quintana, Matthew Brian Sanchez and Ryas Wilson. Photo by Kirsten Laskey/ladailypost.com

Los Alamos Fire Chief Troy Hughes speaking during the graduation ceremony this morning. Photo by Kirsten Laskey/ladailypost.com

Los Alamos Deputy Fire Chief Wendy Servey speaking at the graduation ceremony this morning at Crossroads Bible Church. Photo by Kirsten Laskey/ladailypost.com

Video of Los Alamos County Clerk Naomi Maestas administering the Fire Service Oath of Honor and Safety to the Los Alamos Fire Recruit Academy Class 31 during its graduation ceremony this morning at Crossroads Bible Church. Video by Kirsten Laskey/ladailypost.com

While LAFD welcomed its newest crop of fire academy graduates Friday morning, it also paid tribute and said goodbye to Training Division Chief Benjamin Stone, who is retiring after more than 20 years of service. Here, Fire Chief Troy Hughes, left, presents Stone with a plaque recognizing his leadership, guidance and dedication to the fire service as he prepares to retire June 2, 2023. Photo by Kirsten Laskey/ladailypost.com

LAFD Training Division Chief Benjamin Stone, left, is honored by Los Alamos County Manager Steven Lynne during the Fire Recruit Academy Class #31 graduation ceremony this morning. Stone is retiring after more than 20 years of service with the department. Photo by Kirsten Laskey/ladailypost.com

Outside the LAFD Recruit Academy Class #31 graduation ceremony this morning at Crossroads Bible Church. Photo by Kirsten Laskey/ladailypost.com