Ben Pifher/MDN Newly graduated firefighters received their black helmets at City Hall on Friday as they became fully fledged members of the Minot Fire Department. Standing, from the right, are Chief Kelli Kronschnabel in the background, Matthew Taylor, Alec Rice, Trent Meyer and Tyler Ghent.

A group of five probationary firefighters earned “black helmets” and became full fledged members of the department on Friday at Minot City Hall.

Tyler Ghent, Trent Meyer, Alec Rice, Kayden Staples and Matthew Taylor graduated their training and probationary periods to join the ranks of the Minot Fire Department. Smiling and sharing jokes, the group stood before rows of filled seats in the council chambers to receive the black helmets, differing from the yellow helmets of probationary members of the department.

Following a prayer by the department’s chaplain, Mayor Tom Ross and City Manager Howard Stewart shared words with the graduates and gathered families and community members.

Chief Kelli Kronschnabel administered the firefighter’s oath, then invited those chosen by the graduates forward to pin on the badges making them firefighters.

Kronschnabel explained the rigors experienced and requirements met by several members of the fire department and rewarded their hard work and dedication with promotions to Senior Firefighter. Those promoted were Tyler Christen, Damon Laks and Phillip Newman.

After the graduation and promotions, Kronschnabel presented challenge coins to members of the community as thanks for going above and beyond to help the department.