Adrian Martinez-De La Cruz

When classes start later this week at Hebron Elementary School, many students will recognize Pete Gladstone as the fourth- and fifth-grade math teacher.

However, they may not know about his job outside the classroom, as a volunteer firefighter.

Despite previous injuries and multiple surgeries limiting his physical mobility, the 46-year-old Marine veteran said he was determined to become a volunteer firefighter as a way to regain his former self.

"I've always wanted to be (someone) who serves the community," said Gladstone. "I want to do, I am going to with all the screws, bolts, rods, pain. I don't care because I gotta live, I gotta get back to me."

Before his training, Gladstone said he couldn't have imagined being a firefighter due to the physical challeng

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