MEDFORD, Ore. (Feb. 4, 2026) — Medford Fire Recruit Academy members took part in a First Alarm Run on Wednesday morning, combining physical training with a guided introduction to the community and the department’s history.
The run served as the recruits’ workout for the day while leading them through downtown Medford, where they stopped at locations tied to major emergency responses, defining moments in department history and significant calls that shaped both the agency and the community.
“This experience is about grounding our recruits in the responsibility they are stepping into,” Fire Chief Eric Thompson said. “It helps them understand the community, the work that has come before them, and the impact this profession has beyond the fire station.”
During the event, recruits learned about past incidents ranging from large-scale emergencies to moments of profound loss, including firefighters who died in the line of duty. Organizers said the stops honored service, sacrifice and teamwork while reinforcing physical readiness and strengthening bonds among the recruit class.
The First Alarm Run symbolizes a recruit’s first connection to the community they will serve and reflects a commitment to understanding the history, responsibility and teamwork that define the fire service.
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