Costa Mesa Fire & Rescue adds a new captain and engineer to the mix

Costa Mesa Fire & Rescue  announced the promotion of Fire Engineer Kevin Reddy to Fire Captain and Firefighter/Paramedic Mike Ruhl to Fire Engineer.  

This past week, family, friends and members of Costa Mesa Fire & Rescue team gathered in their valued tradition of celebrating the first day of promotion at their newly assigned fire station, respectively. 

Those gathered at Fire Station No. 3 watched as Fire Chief Dan Stefano pinned the captain’s badge on Kevin Reddy’s chest and the entire Command Staff joined in with his collar brass pinning and the presentation of his captain’s helmets. 

“We expect Captain Reddy to have an immediate impact in his new role,” Chief Stefano said. “He has consistently shown himself to be a strong, fair, and ethical leader who clearly understands the big picture and the value in serving others.”  

Two days later, at Fire Station No. 5, those gathered watched as Chief Stefano pinned the Engineer’s badge on Mike Ruhl’s chest.  

“Engineer Ruhl’s strong technical skill sets are matched with an extraordinarily positive approach in everything he does and an unwavering compassion for those around him,” Chief Stefano said.

Capt. Reddy has been a member of the Costa Mesa team since 2008, preceded by service with the Riverside County Fire Department.

Reddy’s s contributions to the organization have been outstanding, ranging from his leadership with EMS Programs, Community Engagement, Strategic Planning, and Probationary Firefighter Training.  In addition, Reddy has earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Applied Studies from Brandman University.

Engineer Ruhl has been a member of the Costa Mesa team since 2008 and has contributed to the organization in many ways. His work includes being a paramedic preceptor and mentor to others, a leader and department coordinator for the Race for the Cure,  as an Explorer Advisor and member of the Tools and Equipment Committee and his most recent involvement as the lead for our Firefighter Peer Support Program. 

Ruhl earned an Associate of Science Degree from Santa Ana College and is currently attending Kaplan University, where he is very close to earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management. 

 On May 3, 2018, Costa Mesa Fire & Rescue will have a formal promotional badge pinning and swearing in ceremony that will include the department’s 16 newest firefighters. 

The ceremony will begin at 9:00 am in the City Council Chambers and the entire community is invited to attend.