Ashland Welcomes Five New Firefighter/EMTs in Historic Swearing-In Ceremony
ASHLAND – In what city leaders say is likely the largest group of firefighters ever sworn in at once, five new firefighter/EMTs officially joined the ranks of the Ashland Fire Department during a ceremony held today at Fire Station #1, located at 274 Cleveland Avenue.
Mayor Matt Miller administered the oath of office to Benton Foxworthy, Colin Crider, Steve Kaiser, Malcolm Majesky, and Luke Jurjevic. The ceremony was held in the presence of Ashland Fire Chief Rick Anderson, members of Ashland City Council, family, friends, and fellow first responders.
“This is a significant day for our city,” said Mayor Miller. “Thanks to our citizens’ support of our fire levy, we are able to make these hires today. Knowing that more housing developments and businesses are coming to town, this is a necessary step to ensure we continue offering our residents and visitors the highest quality emergency services possible.”
Each recruit was sworn in individually, with family members standing proudly at their sides during the oath. This personal approach was meant to recognize each recruit’s unique commitment to serving the community and to highlight the important role their families play in supporting them throughout their careers.
Miller also emphasized Ashland’s community values, describing the city as the “world headquarters of the nice people” and noting that first responders are among the most visible leaders in the community. He challenged the new firefighters to embody compassion, kindness, and excellence in every interaction.
“Firefighters and Police officers often encounter our residents at the most critical times in their lives,” Miller said. “The way our first responders treat people during those moments matters. It’s not just about procedures and efficiency—it’s about caring for our citizens as individuals, not as cases or statistics.”
Mayor Miller welcomed the recruits as a “fresh wave of energy, ideas, and enthusiasm,” adding that the department remains vibrant and forward-looking.
City Council President Steve Workman, along with council members Dennis Miller, Angela Woodward, and Dan Lawson, attended the ceremony. Councilmember Jason Chio was recognized despite being out of town on work commitments.
The city council played a key role in authorizing the hires, highlighting their ongoing support for public safety services in Ashland.
In closing, Mayor Miller shared a personal note of pride in the new recruits.
“It is truly an honor to swear in this group of young men as our great city’s newest firefighters and paramedics,” he said. “They are stepping into one of the most important roles in our city government, and I believe each of them not only has the knowledge and training to serve well—but also the kind and compassionate hearts needed to care for our people during life’s most critical moments.”
The five new firefighter/EMTs are expected to begin their duties immediately, continuing Ashland’s legacy of excellence in emergency response and public service.
