Brian Snyder said he's always been humbled to serve the community, whether it meant fighting fires at home or safeguarding freedoms abroad.
"Being able to serve the public in some way, shape or form makes it worth doing," Snyder said. "To me, it's always been the nicest part of this. You're here to help when people really, truly need it."
Snyder, 48, was promoted to deputy chief in the Town of Beloit Fire Department during a swearing in ceremony Jan. 6. He is one of three deputy fire chiefs in the township and replaces Glen Hennig, who recently retired. The other two current deputy chiefs are Jeramie Mielke and Rick Tippelt.
Town of Beloit Fire Chief Gene Wright said Snyder is the township's first deputy chief who is also a paramedic, bringing a unique set of skills and leadership to a relatively young fire department.