From the Apopka Fire Department
The Apopka Fire Department, in partnership with the 2650 Foundation, will host a special ceremony at Apopka Fire Station One on Thursday, September 26th, at 6:00 PM, to award six Apopka firefighters with scholarships to attend a certification course in Vehicle and Machinery Rescue (VMR).
These scholarships have been made possible through the continued efforts and support of the 2650 Foundation, an organization dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of fallen Apopka Firefighter Austin Duran.
Austin joined our fire department family as a Fire Explorer during high school and started working with the Apopka Fire Department in July 2020. During his time with our department, Austin showed integrity, a hard work ethic, pride in the job, an eagerness to learn, and an unwavering willingness to help others. Austin was more than a firefighter; he was a dedicated friend, brother, and devoted family member. Austin Duran’s legacy extends far beyond the firehouse walls in Apopka and has brought together a community and fire service. Austin embodied the spirit of a true firefighter and did so without hesitation. His commitment to the Apopka community and fellow firefighters was unwavering, and his bravery and strength inspired us all. As we gather to award these scholarships to members of our Apopka Fire Department family, we will also take this as an opportunity to honor Austin by recommitting ourselves to our calling. He carried forward his legacy by embodying the same selflessness, dedication, and passion for learning new and vital skills needed to keep our community safe that he displayed daily.
Vehicle and Machinery Rescue: VMR certification is an advanced rescue training program that equips firefighters with the critical skills to respond to complex vehicle and machinery rescue scenarios. This training not only enhances the skills of the scholarship recipients but also strengthens the overall safety and preparedness of the Apopka community.
This event will include remarks from members of the Duran Family and Apopka Interim Fire Chief Wil Sanchez, who will recognize the six scholarship recipients and highlight the importance of continuing education for firefighters while honoring the legacy of Austin Duran and celebrating the impact these scholarships will have on the Apopka Fire Department and our community.
Award Recipients:
- Engineer Paramedic Stephen DeMatties
- Engineer Paramedic Sean Potter
- Firefighter EMT Racquel Lopez
- Firefighter Paramedic Juan Millan
- Firefighter EMT Danio Perez
- Firefighter Paramedic Tomas Rodriguez
About the 2650 Foundation: The 2650 Foundation was formed in honor of fallen firefighter Austin Duran by his family, friends, and fellow firefighters. Its mission is to support firefighter education, training, and safety initiatives, ensuring that Austin’s legacy of service and dedication continues to inspire and protect firefighters and their communities.
About the Apopka Fire Department: The Apopka Fire Department is located in the City of Apopka, 13 miles northwest of Orlando, with major access to many parts of Central Florida. The hometown community has more than 61,000 + residents across 34 square miles and includes six fire stations serving our residents and visitors daily. ISO rates the Apopka Fire Department as a Class 1 Department. For more information, visit www.Apopka.gov/Fire.
