Papillion swears in five new firefighters; police sergeant honored for 40 years of service

Papillion’s City Council used part of its Dec. 2 meeting for ceremonial items: five recruits were sworn in as firefighters and the council honored Sergeant Jeffrey L. Peyton for more than 40 years of service.

Fire Chief (Speaker 3) introduced the new hires and outlined the eight‑week training regimen — physical training, classroom lectures, hands‑on skills such as forcible entry, search and rescue, EMS, and multiple‑company operations — and thanked Sarpy County partners and the department’s training staff. The chief identified the new members by name and background: Ethan Ortner, Brandon (last name not stated in transcript), Nate Hubbard, Brock Sass and Jacob Masick, noting prior volunteer experience and, for some, military or college service.

Families participated in badge pinning and Mayor (Speaker 5) administered the statutory oath of office. The mayor and chief congratulated the recruits and asked them to sign required paperwork to formalize their appointments.

Later in the meeting, Chief Whitted / Speaker 7 presented a retirement recognition for Sergeant Jeffrey L. Peyton, who began his career on Feb. 11, 1985. The chief summarized Peyton’s promotions and assignments — patrol officer, corporal (1989), sergeant (2003), investigation sergeant (2005–present), school resource officer supervisor (2021–2024) — and cited awards including officer of the year and Crimestoppers officer of the year. A proclamation read by the mayor recognized Peytons’ four decades of service and wished him well in retirement. Peyton thanked colleagues and family in brief remarks.

The ceremonial items concluded before the council moved to regular business.