The Montgomery Fire Protection District held an appreciation dinner on May 24 to honor several of its members.

Bob Palmer was the first one to be honored. He announced his retirement from his second term as board member. He dedicated 30 years of service, serving with the former Montgomery City Fire Department, as a volunteer firefighter in the current district and as a board member.

Jim Davis was recognized as a founding board member of the Montgomery Rural Fire Department who served as a firefighter and officer for over 35 years. He is retiring from his officer position.

Josh Waters was promoted to officer and will join Jim Cline as department chaplain. He has been serving the district since 2021.

Ashton Roden was honored for completing the Jefferson City Fire Academy and was officially hired by the Montgomery fire department. He joined the department while he was in high school.

Three 2026 Montgomery County High School graduates were also recognized. They were Michael Lipka, Weston Strube and Trice Roden.

Lipka and Strube began their journeys as firefighters in the district’s cadet program. They are eligible to pursue regular membership after completing their probationary task books.

Roden was honored for his outstanding work documenting department trainings, events, and activities through photography and video.