For Jeramie Mielke, fighting fires is a family duty - and admittedly a good feeling.
The new Town of Beloit deputy fire chief said when firefighters respond to emergencies, it might be the worst day of someone's life. But it makes him feel good to know he's saving lives while using skills that he's learned through more than two decades of experience.
"There's the brute force and the fine motor stuff," Mielke said. "You've got to be able to think outside the box."
Mielke was formally sworn into his new leadership role Monday night at a Town of Beloit Board of Supervisors meeting at Fire Station One.
Town of Beloit Fire Chief Gene Wright said Jeramie Mielke brings a versatile set of skills to a dynamic workplace. Wright said Mielke isn't afraid to both give or follow orders and collaborate with others. Mielke is the first person to be hired from outside the department as deputy chief.
Mielke, 42, was born and raised in Footville. He started as a volunteer firefighter there in 1996 and served for about 23 years, like his father before him.