Stockton Fire Department promotes four, welcomes six new firefighters
By Brandi Makuski
STOCKTON — Ten members of the Stockton Fire Department took the oath of office June 10 during the department’s third annual swearing-in ceremony.
Nearly 40 family members, friends and town representatives attended the event at Stockton Town Hall, where Fire Chief Jeremy Spencer spoke about leadership, service and the responsibility firefighters carry every time they answer a call.
Before the swearing-in began, Spencer recognized the sacrifices made by the families who support firefighters behind the scenes.
“If you’re here supporting someone tonight, I just have you stand up,” Spencer told the crowd. “No one truly understands the sacrifice that you all make by supporting the people that you support. They leave family dinners, holidays, right, to go on calls to support the community, and that is not an easy thing.”
Spencer also used the ceremony to emphasize servant leadership. With department chaplain Pastor Doug Schneider unable to attend because of his son’s wedding, Spencer shared a passage from John 13 and reflected on what it means to serve others.
“No task and no person is beneath you,” Spencer said. “True greatness comes from helping others, not from seeking power. We are called to actively love and care for the practical needs of the people around us. If that isn’t what being a firefighter or medical provider is all about, then I’m not sure what is.”
The ceremony included four promotions within the department.
Colin Olsen was sworn in as assistant chief of training. Nick Pliska, Justin Buege and Kaden Stanczyk each took the oath as lieutenant fire inspectors.
The department also welcomed six new firefighters: Desi Glodowski, Lakoda Beebout, Ronan Mateer, Zander Nason, Colton Wanichek and Kyle Krause.
As he administered the oaths, Spencer noted that at least two of the new firefighters had once been his students. Spencer teaches automotive technology at Stevens Point Area Senior High School and paused to acknowledge the moment.
Each member swore to support the constitutions of the United States and Wisconsin and to faithfully discharge the duties of their office.
Addressing the newly sworn firefighters and officers, Spencer reminded them that every emergency call represents someone facing one of the worst days of their life.
“The person calling 911 does not care whether you are paid on call or work this job full time,” Spencer said. “Calling 911 was not their first choice that day. It means they’re having one of the worst days of their lives, and they need your help.”
He encouraged members to approach every call with professionalism, enthusiasm and a positive attitude.
“If it were your emergency, would you want yourself showing up?” Spencer asked. “Always remember these two things: the only person expecting you to be perfect is you, and enthusiasm will take you further than talent, title or skill.”
The ceremony concluded with a department photo and potluck meal for members and guests.
The annual event recognizes new firefighters and department leaders while celebrating the department’s continued growth and commitment to serving the Town of Stockton and surrounding communities.