Celebrating Service, Growth and Dedication at the Rochester Fire Department Ceremony

The Rochester Fire Department gathered at RCTC's Hill Theatre on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, for its Awards, Promotions and Recruit Graduation Ceremony - a night of pride, remembrance and celebration.

The evening began with a warm welcome from Fire Chief Mason Pooler, followed by the Posting of Colors by the RFD Honor Guard. Century High School band member Silas Wagstaff delivered a moving performance of the National Anthem, and Chaplain Jorden Johnson shared the Firefighter's Prayer and invocation.

A solemn Honorary Bell Ringing honored all Rochester Fire Department members who have passed, reflecting the department's deep respect for its history and those who served before.

The ceremony continued with the presentation of awards, recognizing community members and firefighters whose actions made a lifesaving difference:

• Community Member Life Saver (October 24, 2022)

  • Seung-Yoon Lee

• Community Member Life Saver (October 6, 2025)

  • Heather Patch

  • Josiah Nelson

  • Kathy Jarosinski

  • Tricia Sommers

  • Kristina Jovanovic

• Sudden Cardiac Arrest Life Saving Award (October 6, 2025)

  • Chad Clark

  • Jeremy Meyer

  • Manuel Sanchez

The department also celebrated several promotions achieved throughout the year, recognizing leadership, dedication, and continued excellence in service:

• Chris Ferguson - Deputy Chief (March 20, 2025)

• Kyle Mueller - Battalion Chief (June 26, 2025)

• Grant Eckhoff - Captain (April 17, 2025)

• Eric Petersen - Captain (April 17, 2025)

• Garrett Johnson - Motor Operator (April 17, 2025)

• Marshall Ruhoff - Motor Operator (October 16, 2025)

• Robert Veldhuisen - Motor Operator (October 16, 2025)

Additionally, Nathan Swisher was appointed Fire Protection Specialist on June 30, 2025.

The ceremony concluded with the Fall 2025 Recruit Academy Graduation, led by Captains Jessie Ekholm and Bryce Pronk. New firefighters were officially sworn in, received their badges, and experienced the traditional helmet reveal - a proud moment marking the start of their careers in public service.

Congratulations to the newest Rochester firefighters:

• Brian Tremain

• Dominick Mellick

• Matthew Eberhardt

• Brian Dohlman

• Craig Scheel

• Andy Pham

The night closed with applause, smiles, and celebration - a reflection of the department's strong sense of teamwork and service to the Rochester community.