05/29/2026
Sunday evening we gathered as a fire family to celebrate service, leadership, and the future of our department.
A fire department is built on more than trucks, gear, and sirens—it’s built on people who willingly serve their neighbors year after year, and tonight we had the privilege of recognizing several outstanding members.
We honored Bob Palmer as he retires from his second term as a Board Member. Bob has dedicated 30 years of service to our community, serving with the former Montgomery City Fire Department, as a volunteer firefighter in the current district, and later as a board member. Along the way, he also helped generations of residents as our local eye doctor. Thank you, Bob, for your decades of service, leadership, and commitment to Montgomery County.
We also recognized Jim Davis, a founding board member of the Montgomery Rural Fire Department who has faithfully served as a firefighter and officer since 1990. While Jim is retiring from his officer position, we’re grateful that he will remain an active member of the department. Thank you, Jim, for helping build the foundation of the organization we have today.
As one chapter closes, another begins. Congratulations to Josh Waters on his promotion to officer. Josh has been serving since 2021 and will also join Jim Cline as a department chaplain. We know he will be a tremendous addition to our leadership team.
We were also proud to recognize Ashton Roden, who successfully completed the Jefferson City Fire Academy and has officially been hired. Ashton joined us while still in high school and has demonstrated a passion for the fire service and a deep commitment to our community. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for him.
Congratulations as well to Michael Lipka and Weston Strube, who both began their journeys in our Cadet Program and recently graduated high school. They are now eligible to pursue regular membership after completing their probationary task books. Watching young people grow into future firefighters is one of the greatest rewards of our mission.
We also recognized Trice Roden, a member of our Fire Corps program, for his outstanding work documenting department trainings, events, and activities through photography and video. His efforts help showcase the dedication of our members and tell the story of our department to the community we serve.
Thank you to Bob, Jim, Josh, Ashton, Michael, Weston, Trice, and every member, family member, and supporter who makes this department possible. Your service and sacrifices do not go unnoticed.
Congratulations to all of tonight’s honorees, and thank you for helping us continue our tradition of service to Montgomery County.
