On April 4, 2019 the Gallup Fire Department proudly recognized a newly promoted Lieutenant, 3 Firefighters who completed 10 years of service with the Gallup fire department, and 3 Firefighters who completed their first year of service during a badge pinning ceremony and open house at Fire Station 1.

Deputy Chief Jesus Morales and Assistant Chief Michael Hoffman presented each firefighter with their individual badge. Family members pinned the badges on their prospective member’s uniform. The Honorable Judge Grant L. Foutz performed the oath of service.

The badge is not just a piece of metal. It is a symbol that carries several hundred years of heritage and obligation. It is an acceptance of responsibility and the acquisition of a long tradition of service, it’s a symbol of commitment with a rich history. The shield that was once used to protect an individual in battle now symbolizes of the responsibility of contemporary firefighters—to place themselves between an emerging catastrophe so lives and property can be saved.