Citrus County Fire Rescue held a badge-pinning and promotion ceremony that brought together department leaders, family members and Commissioner Barrick to swear in new personnel and recognize recent promotions.

Fire Chief Craig Stevens told the assembled crowd that the badge "is not just a piece of metal" but carries "weight, meaning, and sacrifices," and that wearing it requires humility, integrity and courage. He urged new and promoted members to keep stations and equipment operationally ready and to treat everyone with respect.

Division Chief of Administration Greg Ellis opened the program by introducing senior staff in attendance, including Fire Marshal Mike Simic, Training Captain John Enos, Battalion Chief Lucas Williams and EMS Chief Jason Morgan. Commissioner Barrick offered brief remarks thanking personnel and their families for the sacrifices they make to serve the community.

Chief Stevens led the swearing-in. New hires repeated the oath required for Citrus County Fire Rescue and stated their rank as they were inducted. Family members then performed the traditional badge pinning.

The department announced eight new hires who were pinned in sequence: firefighter EMT Ayesha Elaine; firefighter paramedic Cantrell Burden; EMT Ryan Croak; EMT Zachary Fairchild; EMT Marcus Hall; EMT Austin Johns; paramedic Antonio Espina; and EMT Johan Watson. Following the new-hire pinning, three personnel were promoted and pinned: firefighter EMT Marcus Karn, driver engineer paramedic Caroline Cooper and firefighter EMT Blake Danick.

Chief Stevens emphasized ongoing expectations for the department, including continuing training, vigilance against complacency and attention to mental and physical self-care for first responders. Division Chief Ellis closed by thanking attendees and inviting everyone to refreshments and photographs.

The ceremony was primarily ceremonial and personnel-focused; no formal votes, ordinances or policy actions were taken during the event.