05/31/2026
On May 30, three VBFD firefighters—FF R. DiLeo, FF A. Swindell, and MFF A. Bailey—successfully completed their National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) Wildland Firefighter Training through the Virginia Wildfire Academy at Longwood University.
The training program consisted of four online courses: ICS-100, L-180, S-190, and S-130, followed by the S-130 Field Day, a hands-on practical exercise. Hosted by the Virginia Department of Forestry through the Virginia Wildfire Academy at Longwood University, the field day brings together firefighters from across the Commonwealth to complete a variety of skills and scenarios required for wildland firefighting operations.
During the practical exercises, participants demonstrated proficiency in critical wildland firefighting tasks, including constructing fire lines, fire suppression techniques, and structural protection in wildfire environments.
With the successful completion of the academy, these firefighters have earned their NWCG Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2) certification, an important milestone in their wildland firefighting qualifications.
Congratulations to FF DiLeo, FF Swindell, and MFF Bailey on this achievement, and thank you for your continued dedication to training, protecting lives, and safeguarding property.
