Veteran Mt. Prospect firefighter sworn in as new lieutenant

The Mount Prospect Fire Department celebrated Monday as veteran firefighter Mike Ghawaly was sworn in as a lieutenant.

Board of Fire and Police Commissioner Michaele Skowron administered the oath of office to Ghawaly in front of his family, friends and fellow firefighters. His wife, Dawn Ghawaly, proudly pinned on his lieutenant badge during the ceremony.

Ghawaly has served on the fire department since 1994. He has been a member of many programs and special teams, including the Haz Mat Team for 15 years and the Technical Rescue Team for four years. He serves as assistant team leader to both groups.

Ghawaly has been involved in public education programs for nine years as a member of the EMS Education Committee, Paramedic Preceptor, Fire Cadet Instructor, and also is a member of the Training Committee. He has volunteered as a burn camp counselor for 12 years and served on the union executive board for eight years.

Ghawaly has completed six marathons and an Ironman competition.

As lieutenant, Ghawaly will be responsible for supervising the activities of a fire company at an assigned station and at the scene of a fire or other incident.

"Lt. Ghawaly's strong work ethic, experience and knowledge of (the) fire department will provide for an easy transition and I look forward to working with him in his new role," said Fire Chief John Malcolm.