PUEBLO—Monte Vista native, Johnny Robert Valdez, son of John and Arlene Valdez, graduated from Pueblo Community College (PCC) Fire Academy on Dec. 20.

Johnny is a graduate of the class of 2003 in Monte Vista High School; he graduated the academy at the top of his class as well as the top of 18 Fire Academy classes held at PCC. Valdez also received the leadership award. Out of 23 cadets who started the course, only 12 finished. He resides in Pueblo West with his fiancé Victoria Gonzales and daughter Aries Rose Valdez.  Valdez will continue his education by completing the paramedic course.