The Wichita Fire Department has promoted Elizabeth C. (Tammy) Snow, from Fire Captain to Battalion Fire Chief. The promotion makes her the first woman to serve as a Chief Officer and the highest ranking woman in the history of the department.

“Snow is an outstanding fire officer who performed extremely well in the department selection process,” Wichita Fire Chief Ronald D. Blackwell said. “She will serve the community and the department at a very high level in her new leadership position.”

The promotion is effective August 23, 2008. Snow is a 20 year veteran and has served as a Fire Captain, Fire Lieutenant and Firefighter at various fire stations across Wichita.

The promotion is one of nine others announced today. Billy J. Wenzel was promoted from Safety Officer to Chief Safety/Training Officer. Jeffrey L. Luper was promoted from Firefighter to Fire Investigator. Kelly R. Ross was promoted from Lieutenant to Fire Training Officer. Warren B. Koehn, Jeffrey B. Towes, and Douglas W. Winter were all promoted from Lieutenant to Fire Captain. Lance R. Diffenbaugh, Kris J. Coffman and Colby S. Roberson were also promoted from Firefighter to Fire Lieutenant.

Battalion Chief Snow and Fire Chief Blackwell will be available for interviews at 11 am, Friday August 15th at Fire Station #1 (Murdock & Main). Photos of all of the firefighters who were promoted are available upon request.

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