On October 3rd, 2025 the Tenmile Fire District proudly hosted its first official Swearing-In Ceremony. During the event, John Cota, Jackson Ailes, Nicholas Crosby, Ahbriana Hollamon, and Adam Melendez were formally sworn-in and badged as in-house firefighters.

Additionally, Jacob Merryman was honored with his badge and promoted to Engineer.

Congratulations to all on their achievements and dedication to serving the community!

 

Prior to this event, the Fire Chief, Travis Henderson and remaining fire officers consisting of Captains John Tranter and Cody Shipp, and Lieutenant JP Santos were sworn into their respective positions at the September Board of Directors Meeting on Monday September 8th, 2025. 

The Tradition of Swearing-In & Badge Pinning in the Fire Service

In the fire service, swearing-in and badge pinning ceremonies are much more than administrative formalities — they are time-honored traditions that celebrate commitment, community, family, and service. These ceremonies mark the moment when individuals formally dedicate themselves to protecting life and property, accept the responsibilities of the profession, and are welcomed into the close-knit fire service family.

At its core, a swearing-in ceremony includes the taking of an oath of office, where new firefighters raise their right hand and pledge to serve with honor, integrity, and courage. This oath links them to generations of firefighters who have taken that same pledge before them, reinforcing the weight of public trust and the earnest duty inherent to the profession.

The badge pinning that often follows is a deeply symbolic rite of passage. The badge — worn over the heart — represents authority, responsibility, and belonging. In fire departments across the country, it is custom for a firefighter’s loved one, mentor, or family member to place the badge on their uniform, making the moment both a personal and communal celebration. This tradition honors not only the individual’s achievement but also the support and sacrifice of families and the collective spirit of the fire service community.

 

For Chief Travis Henderson, this ceremony was not just a formality — it was an important moment in the life of the District. By holding this event publicly and with ceremony, Chief Henderson reaffirmed the department’s commitment to tradition, community engagement, and the core values of the fire service.

Why this ceremony matters:

• Public recognition: It gives the community an opportunity to witness and celebrate those who have stepped forward to serve and protect.
• Honor and commitment: The swearing-in connects each firefighter’s personal dedication to the broader tradition of service and accountability embraced throughout fire departments nationwide.
• Support and belonging: Involving family and friends in the badge pinning honors the essential role that loved ones play in supporting firefighters through training, sacrifice, and service.
• Beginning a tradition: As the first of its kind for Tenmile Rural Fire District, this event sets a meaningful precedent — one that future classes of firefighters and promoted officers will uphold and cherish.

This ceremony not only recognizes the accomplishments of the firefighters being sworn in — it strengthens the sense of unity and purpose at the heart of the District, and begins a new tradition that reflects both pride in service and gratitude to the community.