WMFD holds promotion ceremony

Nine firefighters move up in the ranks at fire department

By DON WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

Nine West Memphis firefighters received new ranks this past Thursday, July 27 at the Eugene Woods Civic Center when The West Memphis Fire Department hosted its Promotion Ceremony. Fire Chief Barry Ealy along with Mayor McClendon, city council members, family, and friends participated and attended the event.

“It’s always a great day for promoting fire fighters who have made it to the next level in their career.” said Chief Ealy, “All of their hard work and studying has paid off. Getting promoted is no easy task. And as their Fire Chief, I couldn’t be prouder of them.”

The following firefighters were promoted:

Battalion Chiefs

■ ■ Kevin Catt

■ ■ Stephen Gray

■ ■ Joshua Stokes

Captains

■ ■ James Allensworth

■ ■ Trent Gately

Lieutenants

■ ■ Stoney Burns

■ ■ Michael Etoch

■ ■ Drake Holt

■ ■ John Holloway Both the Police and Fire Departments of West Memphis have been very active in the local community over the summer with several events involving the local youth in order not only to give young people a unique experience and get to know our first responders on a personal level but also as incentive for recruitment in coming years. However, those interested in serving their community do not have to wait years as both departments are currently recruiting.

TOP: Lt. John Holloway proudly shows off his promotion with family. BOTTOM LEFT: Lt. Drake Holt receives his promotion. BOTTOM RIGHT: Lt. Micheal Etoch at the WMFD promotional ceremony accompanied by his wife.

Photos courtesy of WMFD