Downers Grove Honors Its Firefighters

“Courage, pride, integrity, commitment and determination are values that are all defined by the patch that we wear on our shoulder. Nothing less than demonstrating these in the highest regard is acceptable,” said Deputy Chief Jeff Pindelski, as he addressed more than 100 people at Fire Station 2 on December 15^th.

Citing the characteristics that are integral to serving as a Downers Grove firefighter, Pindelski was speaking at the badge pinning ceremony for five young men completing their year of probation with DGFD. The event also honored four members of the DGFD who were promoted.

Downers Grove Fire Chief James Jackson Sr. said it’s only been within the past two years that the department has held this formal public ceremony which included the DGFD Honor Guard, as well as a speech from Mayor Martin Tully.

“Getting a badge and being promoted is really a big deal in the fire service,” he said. “We wanted to keep that tradition going through this new tradition in Downers Grove. This gives it more impact and meaning. We wanted to make this a celebration and a tradition.”

The badge pinning came after what was a very challenging and strenuous probationary year for the five new firefighter/paramedics: Matthew Hills, Michael Covelli, Daniel Rietveld, Thomas (TJ) Aagesen and Ryan McKevett. 

“These guys worked hard for the last year. They’re helpful, excellent workers: they’re really conscientious. We’re so excited to have them on board,” said Jackson.

The five men started the evening sitting amongst their family and friends who had gathered to help celebrate. After a family member had pinned on the badge, each man then joined the members of the FD sitting in the audience. “This symbolized that there’s a seat with us. Once they get their badge, they come from general population to fill a different seat. They’re now part of the family of the organization of the fire department,” said Jackson.

Aagesen, who has worked with other fire departments, said that the formality and solemnity of the DG ceremony was particularly moving; and typical of how Chief Jackson runs the department.

“He empowers the people below him. He really empowers you to better yourself and challenge yourself through the organization,” Aagesen said.

Also recognized at the ceremony were the promotions of Matthew Daly to Battalion Chief of Training; and Bradley Cummings, John Stoeber and Paul Johnson to the rank of lieutenant.

“They have worked very hard to earn these promotions,” said Jackson.”I’m proud of all of them.”

New probationary members of the department introduced were Matthew Liaromatis, Scott Sohn, Nicholas Gilbert and Patrick Jagger.

Jackson said that he’s gotten a great deal of positive feedback about the event.

“It instilled a lot of pride in our guys. It gave them a sense of camaraderie,” he said.

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