The Manhattan Fire Protection District officially welcomed new firefighters, promoted a lieutenant, and gave special recognition to the district’s new fire marshal at a special swearing-in and promotional ceremony.
The September 17 ceremony highlighted the importance of their duties and underscored the tight-knit family they were welcomed into, as part of the fire service. Family members and loved ones of the firefighters attended, as well as several members of the fire district’s board of trustees and board of commissioners, command staff, along with many other firefighters who were present to witness the occasion and support their fellow firefighters – not including the firefighters on duty at the time of the event.
“As firefighters, you will be called upon at moments when others are experiencing their worst day. You will be trusted to protect lives, property, and the very fabric of our community. That trust is sacred, and it begins here, in this moment,” Fire Chief Steve Malone said in his remarks.
He noted how important the support of friends and family is to firefighters as they work through holidays, take on physical and emotional burdens, and work long shifts.
“Your encouragement is as vital as the training and tools we provide,” Malone said.
Fire Chaplain Pat Forsythe provided an invocation and gave some poignant words about answering the call for service and helping people in need.
During the ceremony, each of the firefighters recognized had a loved one pin their badges. Full-time firefighter David Blanton had his badge pinned by MFPD Lieutenant Jonathan Christensen. Part-time firefighters Jacob Elliott had his badge pinned by his father – North Palos Battalion Chief Roger Elliott, and Michael Kass had his badge pinned by his girlfriend, Aryka Brazitis.
Blanton began his career with the Manhattan Fire District in July 2024 and was awarded the Matthew Zack Rookie of the Year Award at the fire district’s banquet and award ceremony this past May.
Elliott, having recently completed his probation as a new firefighter, was very happy to be officially sworn in, noting it was always an aspiration, especially watching his father’s career.
“I got into it heavily with how I was raised up through the fire service, and it was really exciting to become a fireman in general, but being down here in Manhattan, I’ve gotten a really good opportunity,” Elliott, 24, of Orland Park said.
Kass also wanted to be a firefighter since he was a kid and said, “I figured I’d give it a try, and I’ve loved it ever since,” noting he felt being in Manhattan was a good start to his career.
Newly promoted Lt. Lou Helis had his badge pinned by his wife, Michelle Helis.
“Promotions in the fire service are never given – they are earned. They are the result of years of training, dedication, sacrifice, and leadership demonstrated both on and off the fireground,” Malone said, adding the new position brings on additional leadership responsibilities, noting that they set the tone for their crew.
Malone also took a moment to share his personal experience with Helis, recalling his time in the fire academy 25 years ago when Helis taught him. Malone paused for a brief moment to maintain composure as he expressed his gratitude for Helis, his passion for the job, and their friendship.
“I’m very honored to be part of this organization,” Helis said. He shared how roles had reversed and how well he and the others worked together.
Christensen, who pinned Blanton, previously worked under Helis at East Joliet Fire Protection District. He also recalled his time with Malone at the academy.
“To work for Chief Malone and the guys, to work under guys who I worked with before, it’s pretty cool,” Helis said with a smile, adding he was honored to be promoted.
Fire Marshal Lt. David Kolosh’s fire marshal badge was pinned by his wife, Monica.
“I look forward to working together with our community members and business owners to keep the Manhattan Fire District’s residents and visitors safe while in our district,” Kolosh said of his new position.
Kolosh began working as a full-time fire marshal, a new position within the district, in January. He trained with Battalion Chief Bruce Boyle as he transitioned fire prevention duties over to Kolosh.
During Malone’s remarks, he explained Kolosh will work with businesses within the district on fire and life safety issues, plus update and protect the fire codes and ordinances designed to keep people safe, among many other duties.
Malone emphasized his confidence in Kolosh in this new role and noted it was an important milestone for the growing district.
Stephanie Irvine is a freelance reporter.