WMFD promotes a pair

WMFD promotes a pair

Tiebel, Bailey receive kudos in special ceremony

news@theeveningtimes.com

The West Memphis Fire Department recently celebrated another round of promotions. Ceremonies were held Wednesday, Nov. 1, at Fire Station No. 1 for a pair of Firefighter/EMTs that earned a step up.

Paul Tiebel was promoted to Paramedic while Zach Bailey was elevated to driver. The pair were surrounded by family, cohorts and city officials during the celebration.

Chief Wayne Gately reaffirmed his most fun duty was recognizing achievement in department ranks and handling the promotion ceremony and his mother’s famous cakes to cap of the party.

“I say this every time, the funniest thing I ever do is get up here in front of the families,” said Gately.

“These have promoted themselves by getting all the training required and certifications they had to have — all I do is hand them the stuff.”

That “stuff” included a framed proclamation and a pair of caduceus collar pins for Tiebel while Bailey was pinned with the Sergeant insignia. Both got helmets that reflected their new rank and roles on the job.

The chief said firefighters are special people because they are wired to be helpers and are consistently courageous. Gately delivered a great charge to the promoted pair. “These firefighters display the four values of the fire service, integrity, pride, honor and value. They are passionate, team players and very committed. These firefighters are the best this department has to offer.

They meet all the training requirements and I am proud to say they are worthy of promotion.”

After Tiebel and Bailey were pinned by their family a commemorative photo session broke out. The two were surrounded by family, fellow firefighters and city representatives before moving on to Doris Gately’s famous homemade cake.

By John Rech