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Cordele City pins two firefighters in promotion ceremony
Summary
Cordele City held a pinning ceremony July 2 honoring recent promotions in the Cordele City Fire Department, including the appointment of Chief Cook as training chief and the pinning of Lieutenant Walls; the event included remarks from city officials, an oath and a benediction by Chaplain Stan Bowen.
Cordele City officials on July 2 held a pinning ceremony for recently promoted members of the Cordele City Fire Department, announcing Chief Cook as the department’s training chief and pinning Lieutenant Walls at a public event attended by city leaders and families.
The Chair opened the ceremony and invited Chaplain Stan Bowen to lead the gathering in prayer. Chaplain Bowen prayed for "Brett and Justin and for their families," asking for wisdom and safety for the promoted firefighters and blessing their service to the community.
George Sim, Ward Three commissioner, spoke on behalf of city leaders and thanked the department for its service. "The city loves you. We depend on you. You are our backbone," Sim said, praising the firefighters’ dedication.
David, the city manager and HR director, placed the promotions in local context by noting Cordele City’s long history: "City of Cordele was chartered in 1889," he said, and he thanked firefighters and their families for their sacrifices.
Deputy Chief Bullington also addressed the audience, thanking family members for the support required by the job and calling the department a family that endures long hours and demanding training.
The Chair announced that promotions had been processed over the previous weeks. Chief Cook was named the department’s training chief; Lieutenant Walls was promoted and assigned responsibility for Station Two and Engine Two on C shift. Sergeant Beavers was acknowledged as promoted but was not present and will receive a separate ceremony.
Family members participated in the pinning and photographs. At one point Lieutenant Walls responded aloud to the Chair’s charge to maintain readiness with "Yes, sir," and the room applauded as the new lieutenant posed for photos.
The Chair then administered the oath of office, asking the promoted member(s) to swear to "faithfully perform all the duties of my office" and to obey the laws of Cordele City and the state; those taking the oath answered "I will." The ceremony concluded with Chaplain Bowen reading the Fireman’s Prayer, invoking protection for those who serve and their families.
No formal votes or policy actions were taken at the event; it was ceremonial recognition of personnel changes. The department plans a separate ceremony for Sergeant Beavers to receive his badge and oath.
