Pine Bluff, Arkansas – A formal ceremony held Monday in Pine Bluff brought recognition, applause, and quiet pride as firefighters advanced into new leadership roles and longtime members were honored for decades of service to the community.
The event took place on May 18 at Pine Bluff Fire & Emergency Services Station 3, where city officials, department leaders, and families gathered to mark a milestone day for local fire personnel. In total, 12 firefighters were promoted into higher ranks, while four veteran members received service awards acknowledging long careers dedicated to public safety.
During the ceremony, Pine Bluff Mayor Vivian Flowers reflected on the daily responsibility carried by firefighters and the human impact of their work.
“These men here today, who have started out as firefighters, have evolved with excellence, becoming professionals whose job it is not only to keep us safe but to look in the faces of people on the worst day of their lives … they not only save their lives but also save their property and help keep this city safe,” said Pine Bluff Mayor Vivian Flowers.
The promotions were officially administered by Division 1 Circuit Judge Alex Guynn, who swore in the firefighters as part of the formal proceedings. Fire Chief Randy Compton stood alongside the group, personally congratulating each firefighter as family members watched the moment unfold.
“The department is proud of your accomplishments, and we look forward to your continued service and leadership to our community,” Compton said.
The list of promotions included two firefighters advancing to lieutenant positions, while ten others moved into engineer roles. Those promoted to lieutenant were James Maurer and Keith White.
The new engineers are Carnell Greenlaw, Colton Jones, Dennis Glason, Austyn Hampton, Weldon Rawlings, Keyvionte Brooks, Charles Derby, Blake Barnes, Joseph Childers, and Kevin Lightsey. Each was recognized individually during the ceremony as their names were called and their new roles announced.
Beyond promotions, the ceremony also highlighted long-term dedication within the department. Four members received service awards recognizing decades of commitment to fire service and emergency response in Pine Bluff.
Chief Randy Compton was honored for 32.45 years of service. Assistant Chief Ernest Jones was recognized for 33 years, Battalion Chief Edward Pinkins for 35.19 years, and Captain Juan Ventress for an impressive 36.7 years of service.
The ceremony underscored both growth within the department and the stability provided by long-serving leadership. Officials emphasized that the combination of experienced personnel and newly promoted firefighters helps ensure continued strength in emergency response operations.
For many in attendance, the event was more than a formal recognition—it was a reminder of the demanding work behind fire and emergency services and the commitment required to serve a city in moments of crisis.
As the ceremony concluded, department leaders and families gathered to congratulate those honored, marking the occasion with a shared sense of pride and appreciation for both new beginnings and decades of service already given to Pine Bluff.
