Wednesday, the Vicksburg Fire Department held a promotion ceremony announcing new ranks for four of their team members.

During the ceremony, Carl Carson, a veteran of the department for nearly 30 years, was promoted to the rank of assistant fire chief. Julian Tolliver, a department veteran since 2008, was promoted to captain, while Jabaris McDaniel and Daniel Moulder were promoted to lieutenant.

In each case, those promoted began their careers at the bottom rung of the department’s ladder, working their way up to the titles and ranks they currently hold.

During the ceremony, Mayor George Flaggs Jr. credited each with doing the most with the opportunity they had been given and being an example for others, not just among those they serve with at the department, but others in the community.

There is no doubt that recruiting today for the Vicksburg Fire Department, the Vicksburg Police Department and other public safety departments is more challenging than it has ever been.

Those graduating from high school and college have career opportunities that provide higher wages with far less risk. But, as many have said, serving in law enforcement, fire departments or even the military, is a calling. Those who serve do so with a heart to serve and protect their homes and neighborhoods.

Those who were promoted Wednesday are from Vicksburg, they serve Vicksburg and do so with honor and distinction.

They are examples to others that a career can be had and a living can be made in serving others, whether that be through the police department, the sheriff’s office or through the fire department if you are willing to invest the time and make the effort.

More than once, we have written that we must continue to find ways to invest in those who serve our community. We must find ways to invest in their wages, their training and the equipment they use to protect us. That investment provides returns many times over.

Congratulations to those who were promoted Wednesday and thank you for your service, your hard work and your commitment to our community.