It’s not every day that you hear a teenager say they want to dedicate their life to serving others, but that’s Dawson Laraby. The junior recently became a fifth-generation firefighter with Perry Fire Department (PFD), and plans to join the military after graduating next year.
“I think it’s important to serve others because at some point in your life, you might be on the receiving end of someone else’s service,” he said. “Plus, it gives you a sense of pride and accomplishment.”
This past fall, Dawson completed the basic exterior firefighting course and the interior firefighter course, which were both held at the Wyoming County Fire Training Center in Warsaw. The two courses totaled over 100 hours of comprehensive training. The interior course, which was primarily hands-on, provided multiple opportunities for Dawson to train in controlled fires. Prior to those two courses, Dawson received certification in vehicle rescue, where he learned to use equipment like the “Jaws of Life.” He plans to complete a more advanced version of the interior course, as well as water rescue training, in the near future.
With Dawson’s grandfather, the late Mike Laraby, and his dad Dave, along with other family members, being long-time members of PFD, it was a natural choice. In fact, as soon as he turned 16, Dawson was ready to serve in PFD’s Training Company.
“Me joining the fire department has been a long-time coming. I decided several years ago because we have a long family history of serving,” he said. “I feel pressure because I want to live up to my family’s history of service.”
This school year, Dawson enrolled in the Criminal Justice program at the GV BOCES Mount Morris Campus to explore service through law enforcement. Over the next two years of study, the program will introduce Dawson to the basic foundations of the criminal justice system. He currently serves as the Lieutenant of the afternoon class. Judy Essig, the Criminal Justice instructor, has no doubt Dawson will excel in any future plans he pursues.
“Dawson is an outstanding young man; he emerged as a leader early in the school year,” said Essig. “He is a humble leader, who leads with empathy and understanding. He seeks to empower our class as a team, rather than seek the limelight himself. Dawson seeks direction when necessary and is not afraid to implement new ideas and revamp them as needed.”
In addition to the fire department, Dawson stays busy as a member of the PCS wrestling team and Trap Club. After graduating next year, Dawson plans to serve in the United States Army or Marine Corps. His ultimate goal is to become a professional firefighter.
“I want to center my life around public safety and helping people,” said Dawson.