Women on the force hit record high as FDNY graduates diverse class

NEW YORK (WABC) -- The FDNY on Friday graduated one of the most diverse classes in the department's 150-year history, bringing the number of women on the force to a record level.

They stood in line and one by one filed into the auditorium, the first steps in a career that will be spent on the front lines of danger.

"It is not easy to become a New York City firefighter," Mayor Bill de Blasio said. "This is the strongest, best fire department anywhere in the world."

After 18 weeks of training, 295 probationary firefighters officially graduated, the newest generation for a fire department celebrating a century and a half serving the nation's biggest city.

"FDNY firefighters are charged with always doing the right thing, no matter the circumstances, no matter the cost," FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro said. "That's the reputation that has been earned by so many men and women who have come before you."

Forty percent of the graduates are minorities, and the four females joining the ranks bring the total number of FDNY women to 49, the highest ever.

They include Sheliz Salcedo, Choeurlyne Doirin-Holder, Lisa Cusimano and Aleigha Powder.

In a department of nearly 11,000 members, the gains are modest. But the pride runs deep, especially for Cusimano, who joins her two brothers on the force.

For her, it's a family affair, but for all of New York's newest Bravest, it's about inheriting a long, proud history.