The Cornelia City Commission hosted a firefighter pinning ceremony at its March 7 meeting, during which six firefighters were recognized for their recent promotions. More than 50 people attended, including fire department staff, family, friends, and community members.
A pinning ceremony is a long-standing tradition within fire departments to honor professional achievements.
“It gives me great joy to recognize the members of the fire family for their hard work and accomplishments,” said Cornelia Fire Chief Billy Joe Jenkins.
Chief Jenkins recognized three firefighters who were promoted to Operations Lieutenant in March 2021. A pinning ceremony for those individuals was not conducted at that time due to COVID-19 protocols and social distancing precautions.
Those promoted to Operations Lieutenant are:
Christopher Bruce
Michael Hall
Matthew Williams
Three members of the department were recently promoted to captain.
“The demand of a growing population requires that the fire department be ever so growing, as well,” Jenkins said. “Considering our growth and our current needs, we saw fit to promote three Operations Captains at this time.”
Jenkins explained to the audience that in February, the fire department conducted tough written and field tests for candidates for those three positions.
Those promoted to Operations Captain were:
Dustin Henson
Drake Meister
Lee Humphrys
After the pinning ceremony, the Chief congratulated the firefighters for “standing out” and “for being able to lead this department as one family.”
Division Chief Josh Hazle administered the oath of office to the promoted fire officers.
