HOT SPRINGS – The following report is from the Hot Springs Fire Department:
Probationary Candidate Chris Ingram became Hot Springs Firefighter Chris Ingram on Tuesday, August 5 during afternoon ceremonies at the Central Fire Station. Firefighter Ingram successfully completed all of the requirements and met the necessary professional standards to be awarded his new title and black helmet.
Each candidate during their rookie year must wear a yellow firefighting helmet while performing emergency operations. The yellow helmet makes it easier for the officers on an emergency scene to monitor the probationary candidate’s activities. On Tuesday, Firefighter Ingram retired the yellow helmet of his probation and was issued a black firefighting helmet with a front shield designating his name and rank. The black helmet and shield signify his professional accomplishments and his acceptance into the Hot Springs Fire Department.
Firefighter Ingram is the fire department’s first legacy firefighter from a minority family. Ingram’s father, Driver/Operator James Ingram, had a 25-year career at the department, beginning service in 1975 and ending with his retirement in 2000. A legacy firefighter is a person whose father also served on the department prior to the candidate’s employment. Numerous father and son teams have served the city throughout the fire department’s past. The Ingrams have now added another page to that history.