Most of the City of Whitehorse firefighters gathered together Tuesday evening to witness the induction and advancement of two of their members.

Firefighters are a para-military organization with traditions that date to the beginning of the fire service.

Their service, much like the military, public safety or even politicians, begins with an oath of responsibility.

That evening in the city chambers, the candidates marched in led by an honour guard of firefighters with silver axes. After singing the national anthem, led by youngsters Aurelie and Ester, the administration of the oaths began.

Firefighter Paul Gray was inducted as a full-time firefighter.

According to fire chief Clive Sparks, "he has been a volunteer for a number of years with us; he was also a member of the City of Whitehorse bylaw department, and for the last 2 1/2 years has worked with us as a casual firefighter. In October, he joined us as a career firefighter.”

Gray, a former bylaw officer, then read his oath, and was then welcomed into the family of firefighters by a warm round of applause.

Sparks then introduced Barry Blisner: "Barry joined our department in 2001 as a firefighter. He has worked in that position since then.

"He was successful in achieving the position as captain when captain Woodford retired earlier this year.

"Moving from firefighter to captain is a big step in a person's career, and I believe that Captain Blisner's experience will serve him well in this position.”

Blisner then read his oath and received his captain's helmet, shoulder flashes, his cap badge and uniform insignia.

The whole department then sat together for a group photo, since there were very few members of their team off on duty.

Mark Prins is a Whitehorse writer and photographer.