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Passing the Torch: Andrew Lambert's Inspiring Journey in the Fire Service
From SAC Basic Fire Academy to Captain of the LAFD
With roots deeply embedded in the firefighting tradition, Andrew Lambert's path to becoming a Captain with the Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD) began with a spark that ignited at Santa Ana College (SAC).
The story of Lambert's firefighting odyssey began with his father serving 35 years with the LAFD. Inspired by his father's life of service, Lambert felt an early calling to also become a first responder.
At just 16 years old Lambert joined the Costa Mesa Fire Department as a Fire Explorer. That same passion, evident when he was a 16-year-old boy, eventually led him to the SAC Basic Fire Academy from which he graduated in 1999. Lambert is now a 22-year veteran of the LAFD and has held various roles over the course of his career, including Firefighter, Apparatus Operator, Rescue/HazMat Specialist and now in his current role as Captain.
Nevertheless, Lambert still credits SAC Basic Fire Academy for giving him “a strong foundation to build his career." He felt so impacted by his time there that he even decided to return as a part-time adjunct instructor. “The Fire service is all about passing down training and experience to the next generation. Becoming an instructor allows me an avenue to give back and help mold the future of the Fire Service," said Lambert.
Tim Butler, Director of Fire Instruction at SAC Basic Fire Academy describes Lambert as a humble leader who finds motivation in contributing to the fire service and guiding the recruits under his instruction.
“Andy sets an example for the recruits by the hard work he puts in here at the SAC Basic Fire Academy. He is a no-nonsense instructor who delivers a depth of instruction to the recruits that provides them everything they need to be not only successful but to excel," said Butler.
Butler believes instructors such as Lambert who attended SAC Basic Fire Academy play a special role. Not only are they a living testament to what is possible after graduation, but they also come with an intrinsic motivation to continue the legacy.
Lambert's story is a testament that a career in the fire service is about more than personal accomplishments. It is about nurturing the next generation of firefighters, imparting knowledge, and fostering a culture of excellence.
