Fire department promotes, recruits members

The Saukville Fire Department announced seven command officer promotions and one retirement at its Recruitment Picnic and Open House celebration on Monday, March 9.

The open house was “a fun and successful night,” Fire Chief Thad Trinko said, even though rainy weather dampened attendance.

Trinko said four people picked up application forms after touring the station and dining on brats and burgers.

Trinko also used the evening to announce one retirement and several promotions.

Jim White, lieutenant of EMS, retired after 30 years with the department. White was named Ozaukee County EMT of the Year in 2007 and was an honorable- mention selection for the 2006 Badger Firefighter’s Association Meritorious Award.

Those promoted were:

• Jason Laabs, a department member since 2000, promoted from captain to assistant chief.

• Richard Gillson Jr., a member since 2011, promoted from lieutenant to captain.

• Dan Kesner, a member since 2016, promoted to captain.

• Eric Paulus, a member since 2001 who also serves in the Fredonia Fire Department, promoted to captain of EMS.

• Andrew Borgenhagen, a member since 2014, promoted to lieutenant.

• Austin Koehler, a member since 2017 who also is a member of the Waubeka Fire Department, promoted to lieutenant.

• Deanna Laabs, a member since 2002 and a registered nurse, promoted to lieutenant of EMS.

Current command staff members include  Lt. Kyle Goetz, a member since 2004; Lt. Andrew Prange, a member since 2009; Capt. Dale Fischer, a member since 1992; and Tom Paape, the department’s senior captain and member since 1980.