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Heimlich’s decision to highlight the promotions was a final testament to the servant leadership he demonstrated in his seven years as fire chief, Miller said.
“I have a lot of gratitude toward him for sharing his day,” Miller said. “He is a very humble person.”
Miller, a Springfield native, has been assistant chief since 2011 and has worked with the division for over 25 years.
“One of the best things about today,” Heimlich said to the friends and family gathered for the ceremony, “is that I can feel confident about passing on the mantle to him.”
Battalion Chief Matthew Smith will take Miller’s place as assistant chief. Smith has been a firefighter since 1992 and is a fire instructor at Clark State.
Capt. Jeremy Linn will move up to the rank of battalion chief, and former lieutenant Matt Davis has been promoted to fire captain. Firefighter Bruce Kelley has been promoted to lieutenant.
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After taking his own oath from former chief Heimlich, Miller swore in the four men to their new positions.
Before the ceremony, chief deputy state fire marshal William Spurgeon presented Heimlich with an proclamation from state fire marshal Jeff Hussey.
“[Heimlich’s] commitment to public safety has set an example for first responders and citizens all over Ohio,” reads the award.
City manager James Bodenmiller also presented Heimlich with two awards for his 30 years of service, one on behalf of the citizens of Springfield and the other from the city’s staff.
Miller will be publicly sworn in at 8 p.m. Tuesday at the City Hall Forum, 76 E. High St.
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