BRADENTON – There was a festive atmosphere among the crowd gathered for West Manatee Fire Rescue District’s April board meeting as commissioners and staff celebrated the promotions of four firefighters.
Kicking off the celebrations were the promotions of firefighters Ashton Jasinski and Max Pollock from reserve to third-class firefighters with the district. These two promotions were especially touching for the gathered crowd because both men are legacy WMFR firefighters and both received their badges from their fathers.
First up was Pollock, who received his badge from his father Brett. Brett Pollock retired as the district’s deputy chief in January 2016. Max Pollock started off his career with the district more than two years ago as a reserve firefighter.
Next Jasinski was honored with his promotion to firefighter third-class and awarded his badge by his father, WMFR Battalion Chief Rich Jasinski.
“This is probably one of the proudest moments of my career,” Battalion Chief Jasinski said before hugging his son in congratulations in front of the assembled crowd.
Also celebrating a promotion with his family present was firefighter Frank Agresta. Agresta, who has been with the district for five years, was promoted to firefighter first-class.
Another firefighter celebrating during the April 20 district board meeting was Paul Hopkins who was promoted to captain after serving for four years with WMFR.
All of the promotions received a round of applause from the group of friends, family and district staff in attendance with WMFR’s commissioners and Chief Ben Rigney also offering a hearty congratulations to each firefighter.
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