Nationwide — Jayson Ralph, a Black firefighter-in-training with the New York City Fire Department, turned a routine event into a surprise proposal for his girlfriend, Dasia Moore. His fellow firefighters helped him create a memorable rescue drill that ended with an engagement.
Jayson, a probationary firefighter with the FDNY, planned the surprise during the department’s Family Day at Randall’s Island. Dasia believed she was taking part in a mock rescue demonstration, but the drill had a much more personal ending.
During the event, Ralph climbed down the side of a building while wearing his firefighter gear as Moore watched from a window ledge. After reaching her, he carried her away from the staged rescue scene before revealing the real surprise.
Several firefighters nearby held up letters that spelled out the question, “Marry me.” Ralph then got down on one knee and asked Moore to become his fiancée, leaving her shocked and emotional.
According to the New York Post, the FDNY shared photos from the proposal and congratulated Ralph on the special moment. The department said his fellow firefighters were fully involved in helping him ask the big question.
Family Day gives loved ones a chance to watch probationary firefighters show the skills they learned during their academy training. The event includes drills such as mock rescues and firehose demonstrations before the recruits graduate.
The proposal quickly gained attention online, with many people celebrating the couple’s engagement. Social media users praised Ralph and his fellow firefighters for turning a training exercise into a moment the couple will always remember.