Three firefighters honored with promotions by Orland Fire Protection District Thursday

Orland Park, IL – The Orland Fire Protection District (OFPD) confirmed the promotions of three firefighters on Thursday to the ranks of Engineer, Lieutenant and Battalion Chief during ceremonies at the Fire District’s board room celebrated by family, friends and firefighters.

Deputy Fire Chief Joshua Girdick welcomed everyone to the event for the promotion of firefighters Russell Ricobene to Battalion Chief, Sergio Navarro to Lieutenant, and Justin Shanklin to Engineer.

Battalion Chief Carl Jones spoke about the responsibilities of each new rank and then the Orland Fire Commissioner Mohammed Jaber, with OFPD Trustees Bridget Tolan and DJ Jeffers witnessing, administered the Oath of Office to Ricobene, Navarro and Shanklin.

“It’s an honor to welcome our three promotees, their families and friends, our special guests, members of Orland Fire District, Trustees Jeffers, Tolan, and Commissioner Jaber. This is a proud day for our organization,” Girdick said in opening the event.

Battalion Chief Carl Jones, Deputy Fire Chief Joshua Girdick, OFPD Commissioner Mohammed Jaber, promotion candidates BC Russell Ricobene, Lt. Sergio Navarro, Engineer Justin Shanklin, and OFPD Trustees Bridget Tolan and DJ Jeffers. Photo Courtesy OFPD

“These achievements reflect years of dedication, discipline, and commitment to mastering the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for these new roles. To the families and friends who supported Battalion Chief Ricobene, Lieutenant Navarro, and Engineer Shanklin along the way, we say thank you. Your patience and encouragement have carried them through countless classes, long study sessions, and many hours away from home. Their success is all shared with you. To our promotees, know that the members of Orland Fire District have truly appreciated your effort, professionalism, and perseverance that you have invested in preparing for your new roles.”

Jones detailed the significance of each office.

“The engineer position is one of the most critical roles on the fire ground today. The life safety responsibility that comes with this job is immense. Every day, our engineers must ensure that the apparatus is mechanically sound and ready for whatever the call may bring. They navigate busy, congested streets to get us safely to the scene. Once there, their rig placement protects firefighters and the public during some of the most chaotic moments we ever face,” Jones said.

“A lieutenant’s promotion is more than just a change of rank. It’s a recognition of character, discipline, leadership, and the trust placed in someone to guide others in the most critical moments of our job. The position of a lieutenant carries real weight. The front right seat of the engine is not a participation trophy. It’s not a seat you earn by simply hanging around, and it’s not a place where you learn by observation alone. It is a seat where decisions get made, decisions that truly matter.”

Jones continued, “The battalion chief is accountable for the safety of all the residents of Orland, Orland Hills, unincorporated Orland, and all the visitors who come to our community to dine, shop, and to work. Responsibilities include enforcing district policies, to evaluating personnel, managing training, and taking command during emergencies, the battalion chief is central to our daily operations, and to take our, and, and to the safety of our crews and our community.”

The rank insignias were pinned on each promotion candidate by family members.

“I don’t think I could fully put into words just how proud I am of Serge. Having met him before joining the fire service was even a thought in his mind and having the privilege of watching him on this journey from the very beginning, it has been nothing short of amazing. I’ve watched him work, sacrifice, grow, and push himself to become the best firefighter, paramedic, and leader he could be,” said Jeanette Navarro, Sergio’s wife.

Karen Ricobene, the mother of Russell Riccoben, spoke on behalf of the entire family when she also said how proud they were of his determined achievements.

“He is a hard worker, fearless, a provider, and a protector. And I promise you this, he will take care of the department the same way he takes care of his family,” Mrs. Ricobene said. “To his wife, Amber, and to the girls, thank you for your sacrifice for the nights alone while Russell worked double shifts. This promotion is yours, too. Russell, you spent your whole life protecting the people around you.”

Tolan and Jeffers congratulated the firefighters on their career advancement achievements.

“Three firefighters, three promotions, one standard of excellence. Today, we proudly recognize three members of the Orland Fire Protection District who have stepped into new roles through years of dedication, sacrifice and commitment to service. They have answered the call time and again with courage, professionalism, and integrity. Their promotions are a reflection of the caliber of people who make our Fire Protection District one of the finest,” said Trustee Tolan.

“Beyond the titles and responsibilities, we are grateful for the men they are – the leaders, teammates, and neighbors who show up when our community needs them most. Their commitment protects lives, strengthens our department, and carries forward the tradition of excellence that defines who we are. The strength of our department comes from the character and commitment of those who wear our badge, and we couldn’t be prouder to witness this moment. Congratulations to Battalion Chief Ricobene, Lieutenant Navarro and Engineer Shanklin on this next chapter of service and leadership.”

Afterwards, the promotion honorees, their families, and OFPD officials celebrated with refreshments and cake.

To view the video of the event click this link or use the widget below: