Firefighter completes probationary year
By ANGELINA DICKSON, Staff writerArticle Photos
Weirton firefighter Mikel Serafine of the Weirton Fire Department has completed his first probationary year and was presented with his official patch.
On Wednesday, Mayor Mark Harris presented Serafine with his official badge in the company of Chief Dave Lashhorn and fellow firefighers.
"Serafine is an asset to the community and has exhibited this quality over the past 12 months," said Harris. "We are lucky to have him and thankful for his dedication to his position with the fire department."
Serafine was inducted as the newest member of the Weirton Fire Department on Oct. 8, 2008. Having been a volunteer for the Hooverson Heights Volunteer Fire Department for the last 12 years and passing the Weirton Fire Department test administered in 2005, he filled a spot in the department's roster following the retirement of Lt. Ted Maslowski.
Serafine, along with four other members of the Hooverson Heights Volunteer Fire Department, spent four days in New York City assisting the Fire Department of New York City.
Weirton Fire Chief Dave Lashhorn said that Serafine has had a good reputation as a firefighter and he is pleased to have him as a part of the city's team. Serafine stated he has always wanted to be a firefighter and is very passionate about becoming a firefighter for the city of Weirton.
"It is a life-long dream to serve the area I grew up in," stated Serafine. "It's been an amazing year and I am looking forward to more."
(Dickson can be contacted at adickson@weirtondailytimes.com)
