Leonardo Suárez, Rodney Ramos, and Alejandro Valdés are Cuban-born firefighters working near Tampa. What sets them apart is that they were also firefighters in Cuba. In fact, Valdés and Ramos both served at the same fire station in Old Havana. "We are the only firefighters in the state of Florida who were also firefighters in Cuba, and we hope that number grows," commented Leonardo Suárez.
In an interview with CiberCuba, Suárez explained that it was Alejandro Valdés who encouraged him to enroll in the school and complete the three courses required to join the firefighters in the United States. Valdés was motivated to study by his father and kept encouraging Suárez, who was initially hesitant. Valdés even arranged for the school to call Suárez, which ultimately led him to pursue the career he now loves. He cannot imagine doing anything else but being a firefighter.
"It's difficult, but not impossible," says Rodney Ramos, originally from Old Havana and residing in Miami since 2005, when asked about the challenges of preparing to become a firefighter. In his opinion, the first hurdle is the language, and the rest is about effort, working full-time while studying. It requires a lot of sacrifice, but for those who are passionate about their profession, working in what they love doesn't feel like work, explains Alejandro Valdés.
The three were deeply affected by the explosion of the super tanker in Matanzas in 2022 and the Saratoga incident. Their expressions darken when they recall the firefighters who lost their lives in these two tragedies that shook the island two years ago. "They were sent to their deaths," Suárez remarks.
Although Leonardo Suárez is the only Hispanic in his fire station, he claims he has had no trouble fitting in because his colleagues are very familiar with Cuban culture. Currently, Rodney Ramos adds, most of the interventions he carries out as a firefighter are medical, but he knows his profession is risky. Despite this, he hopes his young children will continue the family tradition.
All three men share a deep love for their profession and firmly believe that "firefighters have the same goal everywhere in the world: to save lives."
Firefighters in Florida with Cuban Backgrounds
Here are some frequently asked questions about the unique situation of Cuban-born firefighters working in Florida.
How did Alejandro Valdés and Rodney Ramos start their firefighting careers in the U.S.?
Alejandro Valdés was motivated by his father to pursue firefighting and encouraged Rodney Ramos to join him. Valdés even arranged for the school to contact Ramos, which led him to start his career in the U.S.
What challenges did these firefighters face when transitioning from Cuba to Florida?
The primary challenge was the language barrier. Additionally, it required significant effort, including working full-time jobs while studying to meet the qualifications needed to become firefighters in Florida.
What impact did the Matanzas and Saratoga explosions have on these firefighters?
The explosions deeply affected them, as they were saddened by the loss of their fellow firefighters in these tragic incidents. They believe those firefighters were sent into extremely dangerous situations.