Elmira Fire Fighters IAFF Local 709

06/08/2026

Today, we would like to congratulate four members of Local 709 on their recent promotions and appointments to leadership positions within the Elmira Fire Department.
These gentlemen have demonstrated exceptional dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving our community. Each plays a vital role in the continued success and operation of the department, and we are proud to see them advance through the ranks of leadership.
We wish them continued success in their new roles. Congratulations to all four members on this well-deserved achievement!

Promotions are as listed:

-Deputy Chief Andrew Johnson

-Deputy Chief Scott Ruhmel

-Captain Michael Birmingham

-Lieutenant Christopher Knuth

06/02/2026

Even in a busy start to the year, we never stop training! Preparation is the secret to success!

06/01/2026

05/31/2026

Congratulations to Deputy Chief Eric Barton on an incredible 22 years of service to the Elmira Fire Department.

Throughout his career, Chief Barton has been a tremendous asset to this department. His knowledge, leadership, and passion for the fire service have left a lasting impact on countless firefighters and the community we serve.

Chief Barton filled many important roles within the Elmira Fire Department, advancing through the ranks of leadership over the course of his career. Talking with many firefighters who came up through the department with Chief Barton, you quickly learn that he is an absolute asset on the fireground. However, you would be hard-pressed to hear him boast about his own abilities. He retires as the Deputy Chief of B-Shift and the department's Haz-Mat Deputy.

His retirement leaves a void that can only be filled by years of experience and dedication. Chief Barton always understood that this profession is more than just a job—it's a way of life. He led by example and helped shape the department into what it is today.

Chief, thank you for everything you've done. The coffee pot will always be on for you, and we wish you nothing but happiness, good health, and a well-deserved retirement. Enjoy this next chapter—you've earned it.

05/29/2026

We would like to take a moment to congratulate Deputy Chief Jim Ketter on his retirement after 28 years of service in the Elmira Fire Department.

Chief Ketter has worked his way up through the ranks, not just being the best firefighter and officer he could be, but grooming our younger firefighters along the way. He has always held our department to a high standard and led by example. Many of us have had the privilege of working under his direct leadership or alongside him at some point in our own careers. He would push us to be the best version of our own selves along the way, never hesitating to help anyone in need.

In addition to the duties expected of his position (at any rank), Chief Ketter has adopted many other roles necessary for the operation of our department. He has been involved with the design of many of our current front-line apparatus as well as some now-in-reserve rigs. He has also helped with countless construction projects and renovations around the stations. Jim has always put 100% into everything he has been involved with.

In the last 3 years, Chief Ketter has served as our Training and Safety Officer. Along with overseeing the training of our entire department, he has been involved with the hiring of several recruits and seeing them through the academy.

Chief Ketter is the guy you could always rely on. Whether on the job, or just helping a friend in need, he would be the first to show up and last to leave. He never left anything unfinished.

Thank you Chief Ketter for the impact you have had on our department. We hope you enjoy a long and happy retirement!

-The following words were written by longtime coworker, friend, and fellow firefighter, Deputy Chief Daniel Lutz.

05/21/2026

Please join us in congratulating Local 709s newest members Amanda and Kyle on completing New York State’s 15 week Recruit Firefighter Training.

Congratulations to you both on beginning your career as a professional firefighter and serving the City of Elmira.

05/18/2026

A few of our Firefighters took part in a two-day Surface Water Rescue class this weekend. It was a great opportunity to train alongside other local departments that we’ll likely be responding side by side with on these types of calls.
We’re always looking to sharpen our skills, and just as importantly, continue building strong working relationships with departments throughout the county. Thank you to Southport Fire Department for hosting this class and NYS Fire for putting it on! Great job to all the Departments that attended!

05/17/2026

Last night, the Elmira Fire Department held its annual Firefighters Ball and award ceremony. First, thank you to our members who put on such a great night!

The James J. Heverly "Firefighter of the Year" Award was received by Firefighter Daniel Nybeck. This award is presented to a member who best exemplifies the traditions of dedication, loyalty, and respect for the fire service. Dan is never afraid to step up to any challenge. He is a firefighter who will always go above the call of duty. He is a leader on a Fire scene or inside the station. Dan is a firefighter that many of us strive to be. He never claims to know everything, but if you ask him a question, the answer might come in two seconds or two days—you can trust the fact that Dan will give you the correct answer. Well deserved, Dan!

The "Carl Hillman Award" was received by Firefighter Brooks Bellinger and Acting Lieutenant Glen Horton. This award is presented in memory of our brother firefighter, Carl Hillman, to a member of Local 709 who goes beyond the call of duty. Carl performed his firefighting duties in a selfless manner and demonstrated the ultimate degree of dedication and courage. This special award is the highest bestowed upon a member. Brooks and Glen received this award for their quick actions and selflessness in the face of adversity. Pictured below is the description of the incident that shows the distance these firefighters went with bravery and honor. We are very lucky to have the leadership of both of you gentlemen.
A remarkable night, honoring not just these members, but honoring the rich history of the Elmira Fire Department and those who came before us.

05/15/2026

Today, Elmira Firefighters trained on removing a patient from a confined space. This hands-on training presented a unique challenge while also refreshing everyone’s knowledge and skills in ropes and knots. Continuous training like this helps ensure our crews are always prepared for complex rescue situations.

05/11/2026

Couldn’t let this go without sharing… One last big thank you to Chief Mallow.
Your leadership, dedication, and everything you’ve done for the department won’t be forgotten. You’ve made a lasting impact, and you’ll truly be missed around here.
Enjoy a well-earned retirement, Chief! 🚒👏