On August 16th, the Cathedral City Fire Department held graduation ceremonies for four new Cathedral City firefighters / paramedics who recently went through the Cathedral City Fire Department Academy that trains firefighters on the policies and procedures in accordance to our fire department. Family, friends, fire department personnel, City Council, and city staff joined in on the celebration. Graduates included Kael Eaves, Josiah Maier, Brodie Trayer, and Derek Wochholz. These firefighters filled positions vacated due to department retirements and internal promotions.
In addition, seven other fire personnel were recognized and pinned with new badges honoring their promotions within the department. They included:
Three New Fire Captains
- John Hess
- James Taylor
- Richard West
Four New Fire Engineers
- Corey Goddard
- Jeremy Keenan
- Richard Valenti
- Justin Vondriska
Battalion Chief Eric Hauser was honored for 30 years of service with the Cathedral Fire Department, the longest serving member. Additionally, Battalion Chief John Muhr was recognized for reaching the distinguished rank of Executive Fire Officer at the national level by graduating from the National Fire Academy, a four-year program. He is only one of 120 Executive Fire Officers in the entire nation.
The CCFD is now staffed with forty-six full-time positions who answer the call of duty to provide life safety and fire protection for the residents and visitors of Cathedral City. Congratulations to our new firefighter/paramedics, the newly promoted senior staff, and the highest level of achievement from our Battalion Chiefs.
