GREENSBORO, N.C. — You might've seen flames and smoke near Church Street in Greensboro on Friday.
The Greensboro Fire Department was conducting live fire training, but this one was different from previous burns.
The live fire training took place at the former home of retired Captain Gary Church, according to the Greensboro Fire Department. Church grew up in the home and joined firefighters to watch the training exercise.
Church reconnected with fellow firefighters he worked with during his career and met a few new faces in the fire department since he retired in 2003.
“This day was bittersweet; it allowed our firefighters invaluable, realistic training that only a real home can provide, helping us improve in ways that directly impact our commitment to protecting each resident of Greensboro. Yet, it was also a somber moment to witness such a legend like Captain Church watch his family home—filled with memories—serve as a final training ground for the next generation of firefighters,” the Greensboro Fire Department said in an online statement.
The Greensboro Fire Department said getting the opportunity to train in real homes gives firefighters the chance to experience what they may encounter on calls.
MORE WAYS TO GET WFMY NEWS 2
Download the WFMY News 2 APP from your Apple or Google Play store.
ADD THE WFMY+ APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE
ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for WFMY.
Amazon Fire TV: Search for WFMY to find the free app to add to your account. You can also add the app directly to your Fire TV through your Amazon account.