They stood on stage, beaming with pride, as they swore to uphold the code of conduct of a member of the Aurora Fire Department.

Aug. 9, seven new recruits joined the ranks of the department in the recruit class of 2013 swearing in ceremony and 10 officers were promoted to higher ranks.

“This is another great day in the city of Aurora,” said Aurora Mayor Tom Weisner. “Two traits these recruits share are courage and honesty. Aristotle said courage is the greatest quality of the mind next to honor. It’s fitting and accurate, therein he described the life, the work, the dedication of each and every one of you here with the Aurora Fire Department.

“Each day, you have to make conscious decisions to serve others and to risk your life for them and I think that’s the epitome of courage and honor. We very much appreciate what you do,” Wesiner added.

New officers sworn in included the first two female firefighters to be hired with the City of Aurora in 19 years:
Robert Burdue, firefighter
Donna Feil, firefighter/paramedic
Doolin Galloway, firefighter/paramedic, former Aurora Fire Department Explorer
Eric Heinz, firefighter/paramedic
Adam Hills, firefighter/paramedic-Alicia Pedrie, firefighter/ paramedic, former Aurora Fire Department Explorer
Matthew Schroeder, firefighter/paramedic

In addition, 10 other officers were promoted in the special ceremony.

“For those being promoted today, you are going to show yourself worthy of your new roles. I applaud each and every one of you for your service,” said Weisner. Those promoted in the ceremony were:
Matt Anslow, promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Jan. 19, 2013. His new assignment will be Roving Lieutenant on third shift.
Eric Calkins, promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Nov. 30, 2012. His new assignment will be Roving Lieutenant on third shift.
Ray Garner, promoted to the rank of Captain Nov. 28, 2012. His new assignment will be Roving Captain on first shift.
Ed Heitz, promoted to the rank of Lieutenant May 3, 2013. His new assignment will be Roving Lieutenant on first shift.
Don Jackley, promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief July 10, 2013. His new assignment will be Battalion 1 on third shift.
Dave McCabe, promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Nov. 30, 2012. His new assignment will be Roving Captain on third shift.
Mark Matkovich, promoted to the rank of Lieutenant May 3, 2013. His new assignment will be Roving Captain on second shift.
Jim Maynard, promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief July 8, 2013. His new assignment will be Battalion 2 on first shift.
Cletus Rettenmeier, promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief June 24, 2013. His new assignment will be EMS Battalion Chief.

Special thanks also was given to Chaplain Gerald Rygh, who has served with the department since May 2004.

“We have a strong team and we are heading in the right direction, from our experienced firefighters who set the example in our training of the next generation of courageous firefighters, to our explorer program, who are right now learning new roles and preparing for future careers, the Aurora Fire Department is producing the very best,” said Weisner.