SHELBY — Three new Shelby firefighters took the oath Thursday afternoon as they step into a role putting them on the front lines of the city’s emergencies.
Mayor Steve Schag swore in Jerrod Senter, Nolan Dylag and Jacob Bartram during a ceremony at the Shelby Fire Department at 40 High School Ave.
Schag said firefighters need three things when they approach a burning structure — composure, competence and compassion.
Fire Chief Sam Sauder said the department selected the trio from a pool of 51 applicants.
“They went through a process that tested strength, skill, patience, endurance and heart,” Sauder said. “Not everyone who starts this journey makes it to the stage, but you did.”
Three firefighters, three different paths
Each firefighter chose one person to give them their badge.
Senter joins the Shelby Fire Department from Madison Township, where he served as a firefighter since 2015.
Senter’s brother presented him with his badge.
Dylag joins the department after working at a fire department in Columbus.
Dylag’s wife presented him with his badge.
“He was a lateral transfer, so he obviously brings a lot of experience coming from a city like that,” Sauder said.
Bartram is new to full-time fire service but brings volunteer and part-time experience.
Bartram’s father presented him with his badge.
Sauder said each new hire offers different strengths that benefit the department.
“They all have some form of experience and they’ll bring their own individual talents with them,” he said. “I think they’re going to fit in really well with us.”
He added the three firefighters are not just taking a job, but joining a family built on trust, courage and understanding they will all face the unknown together.
Leaders emphasize responsibility of the job
Schag said firefighters must remain calm to reassure people during emergencies, rely on training to do the job safely and show compassion to residents during some of the worst moments of their lives.
“Jacob, Nolan and Jerrod, thank you for choosing the city of Shelby as the place where you will come to the aid of people when circumstances are at their worst,” Schag said.
Jared Wallace, president of International Association of Fire Fighters Local 2492, welcomed the trio to the department and reminded them of the responsibility that comes with the badge.
“You now join the ranks of this great department,” Wallace said. “From this day forward, the citizens of this community will count on you during some of the most difficult times of their lives.”
Wallace said the new firefighters will soon discover the firehouse includes several “professional fishermen” — and a few who should probably stay out of the kitchen.
“On behalf of the IAFF Local 2492 congratulations and welcome to the Shelby Fire Department,” Wallace said.
(More photos from the swearing in ceremony at Shelby Fire Department. Credit: Hannah Martin)
