PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — This week kicks off Hispanic Heritage Month, and 10News is highlighting neighbors across East Tennessee making an impact in our community.

For the first time in Pigeon Forge Fire Department history, the agency has hired its first full-time Hispanic firefighter. For them, this means reaching bilingual communities across the area.

For 30-year-old Cesar Alvarez, the seven letters of his last name on his jacket is a testimony of where he's been and where he's going.

"I think I'm the first of way more to come," he said.

Alvarez is the first Bilingual Hispanic firefighter at Pigeon Forge Fire Department. He's also an EMT and is able to administer life saving measures.

He's been full time with the department a little over a year. He first joined as volunteer before maki

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