There is a saying about firefighters: “when everyone else is running out, they run in.”

The Bethlehem Fire Department welcomed its newest recruits who will be running into harm’s way, as five men officially joined the ranks during a swearing-in ceremony July 29 at city hall.

“It’s a great day to celebrate the new firefighters coming in,” said Bethlehem Fire Chief Warren Achey. “New blood, new hires.”

New firefighters wearing the blue are Kevin Burnett, Thomas Hart, Logan Sawka, Michael Kercsmar and Sean McCormick.

Their oath made them firefighters, but Achey added their learning about their profession never ends.

Education is one thing, money another. Among the elected officials attending the July 29 event was Lehigh County Executive Phillips Armstrong, who noted their public sector salaries won’t exactly make them wealthy.

“You’re never going to be members of the Saucon Valley Country Club,” Armstrong said. However, the executive added they have the admiration and respect of many people. They put the safety of others above themselves.

After their swearing in, each new firefighter had his badge pinned to his navy blue jacket.

In addition to Achey and Armstrong, Mayor Robert Donchez and Northampton County Executive LaMont McClure offered remarks. Assistant Chief James Lynn offered the invocation and benediction.