TURNERS FALLS — Surrounded by their families and friends, firefighters Kyle Cogswell, Geoffrey Ellis and William Doyle were honored during a promotional ceremony at the Montague Public Safety Complex on Sunday.

Cogswell was promoted to deputy chief, while Ellis was given the rank of captain and Doyle was sworn in as a probationary firefighter.

Prior to this promotion, Cogswell has served as captain for eight years. This is his 20th year serving on the Turners Falls Fire Department.

Cogswell explained his new position centers around inspections, primarily of homes that are being sold, and fire prevention.

“In my new role, I will be aiding in how I can help at a fire scene or larger emergency with an emphasis on command,” he added.

Cogswell said the biggest lesson he learned in his past positions was the importance of training.

“Always prepare yourself for the next emergency,” Cogswell said.

In his time on the job, the Turners Falls Fire Department has changed considerably. Cogswell said call volume has quadrupled since he started. With the addition of two ambulances to the station, the Fire Department has been able to better serve residents.

“We are able to provide better care and more expanded service,” Cogswell said.

Ellis, who was promoted to captain after serving seven years as a full-time officer and a year and a half working part-time, also pointed to the expansion of service.

“I am excited about taking on more responsibilities within the department,” he said.

Ellis continued by saying firefighting is a great career. His advice for new members of the department is to get educated and know how to work as a team member.

The newcomer, Doyle, was sworn in as a probationary firefighter.

After his experience as an EMT for several years, Doyle said he felt he was ready to take the leap into a firefighting career. He has no experience firefighting himself, but has worked with firefighters during emergencies.

“I’m excited to learn more and more every day on the job,” Doyle said.

Doyle’s father served as a police officer and his mother a nurse, so he has always looked up to first responders.

“I thought it would be a great opportunity to serve the town and community,” he said.

Bella Levavi can be reached at 413-930-4579 or blevavi@recorder.com.

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