The Ripon Consolidated Fire District Station 1 is once again at full staffing capacity.

A big reason for that was the addition of Firefighter / Paramedics Jason Hill and Andrew McDonald, who were brought on to fill two long-standing vacancies.

They ensure that the ambulance service will be fully crewed and available to serve the community and the district at a moment’s notice.

The two new recruits became official last Friday, taking part in the traditional badge-pinning ceremony attended by family and friends.

Hill came to RCFD via the San Joaquin County American Medical Response, where he served as a paramedic for the past year. His fire service background includes the Winton Fire Protection District, following his completion of the Firefighter 1 Academy Intern Program.

McDonald, who completed his fire academy training at Modesto Junior College, was previously a paramedic for the Stanislaus County AMR. His firefighting experience was as a volunteer captain at the Burbank Paradise Fire Protection District.

“We extend our gratitude to the family and friends of Firefighter/Paramedics Hill and McDonald for their support as these individuals embark on their critical work in community protection,” RCFD said via social media.