Resuming of Classes at National Fire Academy Campus Brings Relief

EMMITSBURG, MD -- The resuming of in-person classes at the National Fire Academy here next month is drawing relief, cautious optimism. 

On-campus courses were halted in March by President Trump's DOGE committee who announced they were conducting an audit.

No details about the review have been made public.

"Following a comprehensive review by FEMA and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), it was determined certain courses provide effective training to enhance national readiness for state, local, tribal and territorial emergency managers, first responders and local leaders..." FEMA officials wrote in a statement Thursday.

Firefighters across the country as well as local politicians voiced outrage that the institution attended by fire service leaders was shuttered while its programs were reviewed.

"It's very unfortuate that we had to endure this. It was an exercise we didn't need. It's frustrating it took nearly three months. But, the fire service responded as they always do, working together in a unified effort," said Bill Webb, executive director of the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI).

Webb said without a doubt the advocacy made a difference.

While the fire service also welcomed FEMA opening the application period for SAFER and FP&S grants, they are keeping a close eye on the unchartered water in the nation's capital.  

"We remain vigilant," Webb said, adding that re-authorized programs vital to fire and rescue departments still need to be funded.

Emmitsburg Mayor Frank Davis said he was elated to hear the students will be returning to campus. 

"I was confident this would be the outcome. I wasn't happy about the process, but I understand reviews," he said.

The loss of the campus functions impacted residents and businesses as well as the town.

"They're our biggest water customer. So, we didn't have that income. But, we're adjusting," Davis said.

Residents are excited about the return of leaders from across the world.

"What a boost this is as we go into Memorial Day weekend."

Local Congressional representatives went to bat for the National Fire Academy and its importance.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen said of the move to resume in-person training: “The National Fire Academy, based in Emmitsburg, provides critical training to first responders across the country – ensuring our firefighters have the tools they need to save lives. The Trump Administration’s decision to abruptly cancel these classes made no sense – and what’s more, it risked significant harm to our communities and those who protect them. While the good work done by the men and women National Fire Academy never should have been halted, I’m glad to see the Administration has heeded our calls to lift this senseless ban.”

Likewise, U.S. Representative “Despite receiving no response from the Trump Administration to our letter objecting to the senseless cancellation of training classes at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, MD, I am happy to share that programming will be resuming immediately for dedicated fire fighters and first responders from around the nation! The rash decision to close the academy wasted valuable resources and undermined our communities’ safety, resilience, and response efforts. Thank you to Senator Van Hollen and dozens of our Congressional colleagues for joining in the fight to preserve the important mission of the National Fire Academy and the need for educational resources for our first responders,” said Representative McClain Delaney.