Wiatt promoted to Greencastle Fire Department Captain

Thursday, August 29, 2024 at 8:05 PM

By Paul Gable

Wiatt, a member of the Greencastle Fire Department, recently was promoted to the role of Captain.

For the last nine years, Darrick Waitt has shown up and helped people all across Greencastle on their worst days.

Wiatt, a member of the Greencastle Fire Department, recently was promoted to the role of Captain and calls the distinction, both a goal and honor.

"I would say it has been a goal, however, when I first started, I just wanted to become the best firefighter that I could. It is quite an honor. We have a lot of great leaders and great firefighters at GFD, and to be a captain at this department is humbling," Wiatt told The Putnam County Post.

During his time with the department, Wiatt said he has always taken his position seriously and remembers the words of his father.

"My dad always preached "the golden rule" to my siblings and me. Do unto others as you would do unto you. It kind of annoyed me back then, to be honest. As I got older, I realize the importance of it. I want the folks that work below me to know I truly care for them and their families. I will always have their best interest at heart and the same goes for the citizens and the city in which we serve," said Wiatt, who said he strives to make the world a better place for his children to grow up in.

As Captain, Wiatt is the one who leads his shift within the department and is one of three. He admits the position will help when it comes to his role as chief of the Russellville Fire Department and vice versa.

"I would say both places and positions give me the experience to help with the other. In Russellville, we don't have many resources and we have always kind of accepted that and made due. In Greencastle, we have more resources and are able to find more resources. I am bringing that knowledge back to Russellville and putting it to good use. Each person at GFD wants to see a successful volunteer fire service in the county. Rob (Frank) and everyone are always offering wisdom and whatever help they can to assist. That's huge," Wiatt acknowledged.