The Bulloch County Fire Department gathered on Friday, June 27, 2025, to honor the newest class of firefighters, celebrating their dedication and entry into a demanding, yet deeply rewarding profession. The graduation ceremony recognized 11 firefighters, with eight new graduates officially joining the ranks and three earlier graduates already on shift.
Master of ceremonies Chief Ben Tapley began the celebration with a reminder for the new recruits.
"We ask a lot of you, but it's not just us as a fire department asking so much, it's the citizens that we serve, the visitors to Bulloch County . . . they deserve the very best, so we ask for the very best out of each and every one of you," Tapley said.
The ceremony continued with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Prevention Chief Joe Carter. Bulloch County Commission Chairman David Bennett addressed the graduates, emphasizing the critical role they play in the community.
"What you do every day saves lives. It improves the quality of life in this county," Bennett stated, acknowledging the inherent risks and profound impact of their work.
Training Chief Mitch Sikes and Training Captain Brian McCree offered heartfelt remarks, reflecting on the journey of the recruits.
"Keep pushing, keep moving forward, keep seeking challenges; don't ever get comfortable," Sikes said.
Captain McCree reminded the new recruits of the immense privilege of being a firefighter.
"Being a firefighter isn't just a job, it's a call," he asserted.
He praised their perseverance, acknowledging the rigorous training and challenges they overcame, and expressed his pride in their commitment to the fire service.
The graduates, divided into Class 25-1 and Class 25-2, were individually recognized and presented with their certificates. Class 25-1, which started in January and concluded in March, included Cody Thompson, Leah Vangiller, and Bryce Willis. Class 25-2, graduating the day of the ceremony, consisted of Darren Brown, Clint Reier, Chris Rodriguez, Dexter Scroggins, Julian Spencer, Joseph Taylor, and Andrew Thomas. Each graduate was invited to bring a family member forward, highlighting the vital support system that underpins a firefighter's career.
Jordan Kreiter, a firefighter with 13 years of experience and sister of graduate Leah Vangiller, shared how early exposure to the fire service inspired her sister to join, making this a long-held dream come true for her. From a tender young age, the younger sibling knew she wanted to follow in her sister's footsteps.
"She would always come to the preschool I was at and bring the firetruck up," Vangiller explained.
After each new firefigher's name had been called, Tapley asked the recruits to recall why they joined the Bulloch County Fire Department.
Brice Willis, of Class 25-1, said, "I've always wanted to help others."
"My parents are both cops," Joseph Taylor, of Class 25-2, shared. "I wanted to to do something honorable, something I could be proud of."
Chris Rodriguez also had a family member who was his mentor: "My father served."
Darren Smith, a 36-year-old Army veteran, credited the fire department with his growth as an individual.
"It required me to be somebody better," he said.
The event concluded with the administration of the Firefighter Oath, followed by a prayer for safety, and a blessing of the refreshments.
"Take this day with you," Tapley concluded.
As these new firefighters embark on their careers, assigned to stations across Bulloch County, the community stands ready to support them, recognizing the invaluable service they provide.