Countryside Fire District Promotions

The Countryside Fire Protection District promoted two members at a ceremony during the District's Board of Trustees meeting on May 18th at the headquarters station in Vernon Hills. Family, friends and other fire service members packed the room for the event.

Lieutenant Jim Weber was promoted to Battalion Chief. Jim joined the department in 1992. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2003. He has served as a member of dive team, fire investigator, CPR instructor, and firefighter pension board. Jim recently was assigned as the Medical Officer for Countryside Fire District.

Firemedic Mark Skala was promoted to Lieutenant. Mark joined Countryside Fire District in 1998 as a paid on call member. He became a career member of the department in 2003. He is a current member of the Lake County Specialized Response Team as a rescue technician, he has been an active member at Countryside Fire District maintaining the District's tools and equipment, and assisting with fire safety education.

The two members took their oath of office that was delivered by Fire District President Frank Wolowic. Their new badges were pinned on their uniforms by family members.

The promotions come on the heels of Battalion Chief Brian Garrity's retirement after service to the Countryside Fire Protection for 28 years.

Congratulations to all!