San Angelo Fire Department Promotes Seven New Officers and Honors Four Retirees

Today, the San Angelo Fire Department promoted seven firefighters at their promotion ceremony, and officially said goodbye to four other firefighters who retired from service.

During the ceremony, Johnny Fisher was promoted to Fourth Battalion Chief; Robert Wells got promoted to Captain; and, Nolan Sellers and Chatta Russell were promoted to lieutenants. Three firefighters were also promoted to drivers: Benjamin Ashlock, Jason Jacoby and Manuel Garza.

San Angelo Fire Chief, Brian Dunn, presided over the promotion ceremony and read the Oath of Office to each individual. Family members and spouses helped to pin the ranks on each member being promoted.   

“It’s a great day when you see these guys progress up in their careers," said Dunn. "The ones who were promoted today spent a considerable amount of time studying and learning to advance to where they have gotten to today. They have all done a fantastic job.”  

 Councilwoman Elizabeth Grindstaff, SMD5,was present at the promotion ceremony along with City Council candidates Harry Thomas and Trinidad Aguirre, Jr.

“I think we have to celebrate the promotions of course, but these are the people who work for the citizens every day," said Grindstaff. "These are the guys who put their lives on the line, and I think that it’s very important that we acknowledge that.”

The ceremony also gave mention to prior firefighters for their service who have been retired since 2014. Those individuals honored for long-time service included Driver Michael Bell, Battalion Chief Jerry Hunt and Driver Jimmy Tumlinson. All men logged at least 30 hours with the City’s fire service. The department also recognized the service of Lt. Kyle Green who retired with 21 years of service.

“It always hurts to lose experience, but, hopefully, you’ve got guys who continue to study hard and work on skills and things so they gain experience and continue to move forward," Dunn stated. "Nothing stands still; people are going to come and people are going to go.”    

These retirees weren't present at the promotion ceremony because they had officially retired in the past, Dunn said. One retiree had recently had a retirement party at the Fire Station as well.

“Some of them don’t want retirement parties, but we also put their names on the cake,” Dunn said.

Dunn mentioned, prior to the ceremony, that he always worries about the wellbeing of his firefighters, especially when he is off the clock. He added that it’s reassuring to see those who retire being healthy after a service dedicated to helping others. He also looks towards the future and witnessing the next generation take charge.

Dunn stated, “I think all these guys should do a really good job. They’ve studied hard, and like I said, these guys are the top ones. We promote based on test score merit, so, if there’s one opening in this rank, it’s the top test scores that get it.”