City News & Updates

Batallion Chief Duane Naab, Fire Chief Tony Johnson, Alex Pashea, Damon Kaylor, Mayor Richard Strick, Asst. Chief Nick Bauer and Fire Marshal Dave Teusch.

Two new Huntington firefighters were sworn into duty on Monday morning. Join us in congratulating the Huntington Fire Department’s latest team members, Damon Kaylor and Alex Pashea.

“Today I am happy to welcome Damon and Alex into our brotherhood of professional, dedicated firefighters,” Fire Chief Tony Johnson said Monday.

Monday’s swearing-in ceremony was the culmination of a nearly six-month hiring period that started last September. The lengthy process ensures a thorough vetting process, Chief Johnson said.

“We take that seriously and we want to make sure we move the best candidates forward,” he said.

Kaylor was raised in Huntington and attended Huntington North, where he excelled as a leader on the Viking football team. He attended Michigan State University on an athletic scholarship and earned academic All-Big 10 honors.

An offensive lineman, Kaylor transferred to Ball State University. He was named a team captain there for the 2023 and 2024 seasons while earning several all-conference awards.

Kaylor finished college with a bachelor’s degree in general studies and a graduate certificate in athletic coaching. He was joined by his parents, Blaine and Teresa Kaylor, at Monday’s ceremony.

Pashea was born in Avilla, Ind., where he graduated from East Noble High School. He competed on his high school soccer and wrestling teams, and he later qualified to compete in international strongman competition.

Pashea also has served as a member of the Markle-Uniondale Volunteer Fire Department, There, he earned several state certifications that will give him a head start as a Huntington firefighter.

Pashea was joined for Monday’s swearing-in ceremony by his parents, Rich and Deaneen Pashea, and his girlfriend, Brianna Pepper.