Quincy swears in two new firefighters; Chief Bernie Volkamp honored as he retires after 27 years

The Quincy City Council held a swearing-in ceremony Feb. 28 for two new firefighters and honored Chief Bernard ("Bernie") Volkamp on his retirement after more than 27 years with the Quincy Fire Department.

Kyle Vandermaiden and Andrew Stegman were sworn in and assigned badge numbers 171 and 172, respectively. Barry Chaney, chairman of the Fire and Police Commission, described both hires as the top two candidates from a list of 55 applicants and summarized the department's five-phase screening process — written exam, interview, background investigation, polygraph, psychological and medical exams, and drug testing — that new hires complete before appointment.

Chaney said Vandermaiden graduated from Unity High School in 2012 and earned a bachelor's degree from Illinois State University in 2017; he has worked with Adams County EMS and part time with the Triton Fire Department. Stegman, a 2017 Quincy High School graduate, served five years in the U.S. Army (separating as a staff sergeant) and most recently worked in transportation (stated as "nap hide" in the record). Both recruits are scheduled to begin the fire-service institute on March 3 in Champaign.

Mayor Kamen administered the oath, and the chief presented their badges. Vandermaiden and Stegman introduced family members in the chamber following the ceremony.

The council also recognized Chief Volkamp’s 27 years of service. As part of the retirement acknowledgements, the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association presented a recognition certificate and a challenge coin to Volkamp, signed Feb. 28 by association leadership. Commission members and colleagues praised Volkamp for leadership, department improvements and operational investments during his tenure, including new breathing apparatuses, an updated communications system and two fire trucks on order.

Quotes (from the meeting): - Barry Chaney, Fire & Police Commission chairman: "These two gentlemen represent the creme to the creme of their list ... They sit 1 and 2 on the list." - Chief Volkamp (retiring): "I very much have enjoyed working for the city of Quincy ... I very much have enjoyed working with the council and the mayor. So I cannot tell you how much this has been a good career for myself and for my family."

Badge assignments and academy start dates mentioned above were reported in the ceremony. Commission and department officials said the appointments are effective immediately and that the new firefighters will attend the academy beginning March 3.