New Bemidji Firefighters Recognized at 2nd Annual Badge Pinning Ceremony

It was a day to remember for the Bemidji Fire Department on Friday, as their 2nd annual badge pinning ceremony took at the Sanford Center.

“It’s, like, an opportunity for us to highlight the hard work that these six individuals have put in over the last year,” said Bemidji Fire Chief Justin Sherwood.

The six new firefighters were given their badges for completing their probationary periods. The journey to get to where they are now wasn’t easy.

“Seeing some things that, you know, the normal person really doesn’t ever get to see,” said Bemidji firefighter Tyler Simon, who was one of those receiving his badge at the ceremony. “Going through a lot of rigorous training to get where I am today.”

But it’s not just a job – it’s a bond of brotherhood and sisterhood in the Bemidji Fire Department.

“After my first year, I am where I am, and I know what I know. It’s kind of over a year training, so it’s nice to know that everyone around me in the department has my back no matter what,” added Simon.

Years of service pins were also given to Bemidji Fire Department members at the ceremony.