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City of Buckhannon Welcomes New Firefighter and Celebrates First Probationary Firefighter of In-House Training Academy

BUCKHANNON, WV: The City of Buckhannon is proud to announce the hiring of Joshua Bowers as the newest paid firefighter with the Buckhannon Fire Department. Bowers was officially sworn in during the December 18, 2025, Buckhannon City Council meeting, marking a historic milestone as the first probationary firefighter to complete the department’s newly established in‑house training academy at the Mudlick Road Training Facility.

Mayor Robbie Skinner administered the oath of office, followed by Bowers’ wife, Grace, pinning his badge in front of council members, department personnel, and community guests.

Fire Chief J.B. Kimble emphasized the significance of this moment for both the department and the City’s long-term investment in firefighter training. The Buckhannon Fire Department completed major upgrades to its Mudlick Road Training Facility in 2024, including the addition of a flashover/burn box generously donated by the Loudoun County (VA) Fire Department. The facility now allows Buckhannon firefighters to complete comprehensive, live‑fire training locally rather than traveling outside the region.

Chief Kimble noted that Bowers will be the first firefighter to complete the department’s full in‑house academy. “You’re going to be the first one to go through a really good academy,” Kimble told Bowers. “I look forward to teaching you how to fight fire and to treat the public the way firefighters should.”

The City of Buckhannon continues to invest in training, equipment, and personnel to ensure the highest level of public safety for residents, businesses, and visitors.

For more information about the Buckhannon Fire Department, please contact City Hall at 304‑472‑1651 or visit www.buckhannonwv.org.

History in the making—Firefighter Joshua Bowers takes the oath and becomes the first to be enrolled in Buckhannon’s in-house fire academy. Pictured with Mayor Robbie Skinner at the Dec. 18 council meeting.
Members of the Buckhannon Fire Department joined in the swearing-in of Firefighter Joshua Bowers, the first probationary firefighter enrolled in the department’s new in-house training academy. He is pictured with his wife, Grace, and fellow firefighters following the Dec. 18 swearing-in ceremony at City Hall.

©2025.

City Hall • 70 East Main Street, Buckhannon, WV 26201 • 304-472-1651