MERRILL — Merrill Fire Department has promoted one of its own to the position of Battalion Chief – operations.
Jon Leiskau began serving in his new role on June 2, following the recent retirement of Battalion Chief Steve Hintze, according to the Merrill Fire Department. Leiskau has been with the department since 2001.
As the Battalion Chief in charge of C Crew, he supervises six firefighter/paramedics daily and is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the fire department. Additionally, Leiskau will handle lead coordination of the fire department’s public education/relations and facility maintenance.
The Merrill Police & Fire Commission officially approved Leiskau at their April meeting.
During the 18 years Leiskau has been with the department, he has completed numerous training courses, such as ice and swiftwater rescue, confined space rescue, hazardous materials, incident command courses and fire investigations. He also holds the state certifications/license of Firefighter I & II, EMT-Paramedic, Driver/Operator – Pumper & Aerial, Fire Inspector, Emergency Services Instructor and Fire Officer.
The Merrill Fire Department is excited to have Leiskau in his new position.
“We know that Battalion Chief Leiskau will continue to work hard and give Merrill his very best,” Chief Josh Klug said in a news release.
The Merrill Fire Department will host a badge pinning ceremony at 5 p.m. June 17, during which Leiskau will receive his new badge and fire helmet shield. The public is invited to attend; the event will be held outside the station (weather permitting) by the firefighter memorial.
