Albuquerque Fire Rescue Promotes 16 Members

16 members of Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR) have pinned on their new badges and bugles to signify achieved ranks and new responsibilities within the department and to Albuquerque families. Today, the City of Albuquerque, Mayor Tim Keller, and Fire Chief Emily Jaramillo hosted a ceremony to celebrate these AFR promotions. The ceremony recognized AFR’s additions to the ranks of Lieutenant and Captain.

The new badges and bugles are a visual symbol of rank, but what isn’t seen is the countless hours of training and studying that go into the certification and promotional process. AFR is continually adapting to the needs of the community and its members and AFR’s members continue to step up into leadership roles.

The department depends on every rank for its success, but its progress is driven by those that provide solutions to the challenges that come with rank. Today, the City and the department celebrates those that have risen to the challenge.

• 1 Captain
• 7 Suppression Lieutenants
• 8 Paramedic Lieutenants

“These career achievements exemplify the commitment of our firefighters to keeping Albuquerque families safe,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “AFR continues to be one of the finest and busiest fire departments in the nation and these newly promoted officers and the heroic efforts of these AFR crews are a testament to that.”

Also recognized were the crew of Fire Station 14 for their efforts in a lifesaving cardiac arrest that occurred on the West Mesa on October 20, 2024. Crews had to overcome access issues and provider challenges, but through teamwork, successfully resuscitated the patient who was able to walk out of the hospital a few days later. Early identification of cardiac arrest, the activation of 911, and immediate bystander hands only CPR are paramount. The expeditious AFR EMS response with advanced cardiac life support, and transport to definitive care are all part of the chain of survival.
The crew from Station 5 were also recognized for their lifesaving efforts at a structure fire on April 3, 2025. Station 5 arrived to a two-story apartment building with fire and smoke showing from the first floor. Crews made entry, searched and located two unconscious victims inside the structure. The victims were removed, treated and transported to the hospital. Station 5’s dedication to protecting life and property was evident with a rescue that saved two lives in one of the most challenging scenarios firefighters face.

“16 promotions across the company officer ranks is exciting for the future of the department,” said Fire Chief Emily Jaramillo. “The officers set the expectations and ensure that standards are met. Congratulations to all those promoted and thank you for your devotion to AFR and commitment to Albuquerque. And to the crews that were recognized today thank you for keeping the oath and your continued dedication to service.”