Gloria Banister is set to become the first female firefighter in North Vernon’s history when she is officially sworn in Monday during the North Vernon City Council meeting.
The 32-year-old Banister passed the same qualifying tests that the members of the city’s fire department have passed to qualify for a full-time job.
“We are very excited about this. I think it shows the how the whole department is ready to move forward toward our new future,” North Vernon Fire Chief Michael Cole said.
Banister previously served as firefighter in the Montgomery Township Volunteer Fire Department.
“The guys have seen her work and we are confident that she will do a good job in this department,” Cole said.
Banister becomes the fourth full-time firefighter hired at the North Vernon Fire Department. The others are: Curtis Burton, Aaron Poole and Tyler Poole.
“The other firemen and the staff will all be at the meeting to officially welcome her into the department. In our business, camaraderie is very important. It is everything when we go into a fire. It doesn’t matter which race, gender or religion you are; we all have each other’s back equally,” Cole said.
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If you go
What: North Vernon City Council meeting
When: 6 p.m. Monday
Where: City Hall, 143 E. Walnut St.
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