The FDNY held a graduation ceremony welcoming 231 people into the ranks of New York’s Bravest. 

This class of rookie firefighters is set to make history, with eight women graduating in this class, one of whom will be joining her sister. 

“I was able to follow in her footsteps,” said graduate Shanah Laroche. "And she inspired me to just keep pushing and do my best.” 

Laroche and her sister Ashley will make history as the FDNY’s first Black women who are sisters to work together.  

“The fact that we’ve done this together, it’s a blessing and an honor,” said Ashley. “And we’re just embracing the moment and continuing to work hard for the department, ourselves, and serving the community.” 

Later this week, the probationary firefighters will be heading out into the field to their assigned firehouses across the city.