C-Shift

C-Shift enjoyed another productive year in 2025, marked by training, well-executed emergency responses, and a wide variety of individual achievements among those assigned to the shift.  There were numerous promotions to all ranks, ranging from Lieutenant to Battalion Chief.  The shift also saw impressive proficiency advancements in FFIII and Paramedic positions.  This was made possible by the efforts of other shift members who stepped up and served as mentors for what seemed like an endless cycle of OJT.  Completion of probationary task books remained constant, and our personnel remained dedicated to developing our newer members throughout the year.  

C-Shift is fortunate to have many experienced instructors, including several MICRB-certified individuals.  This allowed us to conduct a wide variety of training throughout the year, including multiple live-burn evolutions for entire battalions at a time.  A tremendous amount of planning and logistical support was required to conduct live burns at the USNA, in addition to our own training academy.  While C-Shift has accomplished this in previous years, in 2025, we also incorporated core competency training into our live-fire training.  Throughout 2025, each battalion conducted training at the battalion level with great regularity.  A wide variety of training focusing on core basic skills was conducted at acquired structures at the old Crownsville Hospital and Fort Meade. This frequently included mutual-aid partners and volunteer participation.  

Two of our officers developed and delivered a Rescue Swimmer Program that many of our members volunteered to attend.  The second battalion completed several MCI training drills in 2025.  C-Shift remains focused on core competency training, as evidenced by our Odenton Fire Station 28 receiving challenge coins from the Assistant Fire Chief for outstanding performance during core competency evaluations.  

The shift received dozens of Gift of Life awards, and our Maryland City Fire Station 27 was able to successfully deliver a baby with a nuchal cord under challenging circumstances.  

C-Shift said goodbye to Battalion Chief Paul Eichler, who retired in November after serving an impressive 34 years with the Department.  We also bid farewell to Battalion Chief Jamie Howarth, who transferred to the first battalion on D-Shift.  Chief Howarth recently earned her Chief Fire Officer designation and will be greatly missed.  C-Shift welcomed Battalion Chief Fred Riedel to the third battalion, where his knowledge and experience will be of great benefit.  We also welcomed newly promoted Battalion Chief Bobby Fink to the fourth battalion, where he is already settling in quite well. 

We’re looking forward to a great 2026!

-Chief Kernan