Nobleford honours its fire chief for 22 years of service

Posted on August 21, 2025 by Sunny South News

By Kristine Jean
Sunny South News

The Town of Nobleford recently honoured its fire chief, Ryan Wagner for his 22 years of service to the community.   

Friends, family and colleagues joined Town of Nobleford staff and council to honour Wagner and commemorate the service milestone in a ceremony on August 6, at the Nobleford Community Complex.  

Wagner, who has spent his entire 22-year career with the Nobleford and District Emergency Services, was presented with the Alberta Emergency Services Medal (AESM) Bronze Bar, which recognizes 22 years of service in Alberta Emergency Services. 

Certificates were also presented to Wagner, on behalf of Cardston-Siksika MLA Joseph Schow and Lethbridge MP Rachael Thomas, who were not able to attend. 

Nobleford Mayor Joan Boeder said it was a “well-deserved recognition” and shared a few words, thanking Wagner for his contributions in Nobleford, which have “truly enriched the community.” 

“On behalf of Nobleford town council, the town administration and staff and the residents of the Town of Nobleford, I am honoured to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Chief Ryan Wagner on reaching an incredible milestone,” said Boeder. “Twenty-two years of dedicated service with the Nobleford Fire Department. Serving as a volunteer firefighter requires and extraordinary level of committment, resilience and personal sacrifice,” she added. 

Fire fighters from across the region and neighbouring fire departments, including the Town of Coaldale, also attended the ceremony. 

Lethbridge County’s Director of Emergency Services Heath Wright, also shared a few words to congratulate Wagner on the milestone.  

“Chief Wagner is being awarded for his 22-year emergency services bar, an incredible milestone that speaks to his unwavering commitment, leadership and service to our community,” said Wright. “(For) over two decades, Ryan’s consistently demonstrated the highest depths of professionalism and dedication. His leadership has not only strengthened his department, but has made a lasting impact across out entire region. On behalf of all of us at Lethbridge County, thank you Chief Wagner for your outstanding service,” he added.  

Wagner said he was surprised by the ceremony but was touched by the outpouring of support and heartfelt celebration. 

“I was honestly blown away by the surprise that I came down for and the support from colleagues, friends, family and neighbouring (fire) departments. It means a lot,” said Wagner, noting some of the highlights in his 22-year career. “The service, helping the community, our friends, our neighbours – that’s what we do it for.”