The classroom at Fire Station #3 was filled with family, friends, coworkers and well-wishers for Captain Ryan D. Thornton as he was promoted to deputy chief in a brief pinning and swearing-in ceremony on the morning of Jan. 5.

Thornton will be replacing current Deputy Chief Shawn Tobler, who will retire on Jan. 29. Thornton has been with the Mesquite Fire Department for 24 years, the last seven as captain.

City Council members and staff were in attendance for formal recognition of the appointment, including the new city manager. Tobler said, “I have full confidence in Thornton as a leader. I have worked with him for many years. He is a dedicated officer of MFD.”

Thornton was pinned by his spouse, who offered a big hug. City Clerk Julie Goodsell swore him in.

Thornton thanked everyone for attending the ceremony and stated how much he loves this community and the fire department. He feels he has had the best mentoring one could ever have from Chiefs Tobler and Jayson Andrus.

Fire Chief Andrus congratulated Thornton on his well-deserved promotion, gave him his award certificate and, with a big smile, declared that he believes in short ceremonies.