This month five new San Bernardino County Fire Captains have been promoted and assigned to the Morongo Basin. Reporter Jef Harmatz introduces you to the newly-promoted first responders…
The five new Captains are certified paramedics, bringing a diverse skillset and collectively more than 80 years of fire service experience. Each new Captain has previously worked in many capacities within San Bernardino County Fire, but most recently as Engineers throughout the Fire District. Prior to being eligible for Captain each candidate completed ten California State Fire Marshal Company Officer classes and a one-week preparation class to ready them for the position. Their well-deserved promotions come after a rigorous testing process including; fire simulation exercises, oral examinations and interviews. Fire Captains are tasked with supervising 3-7 employees daily at a local fire station and oversee a fire engine or truck company.
The new Captains are:
- Aaron Comstock, assigned to Fire Station 44, 29 Palms
- Derek Blenkarn, assigned to Fire Station 44, 29 Palms
- Brandon McGarvey, assigned to Fire Station 42, Yucca Valley
- Steven Avila, assigned to Fire Station 41, Yucca Valley
- Chris Mercado, assigned to Fire Station 36, Joshua Tree
- “I am excited to welcome these new captains to the Morongo Basin. I have known and worked with all five newly promoted captains and know they will provide leadership to their crews and premier service to the community.” – Assistant Chief Scott Tuttle, who oversees operations in the Morongo Basin.
