On March 23, 2023, Volunteer Firefighter and Assistant Chief Gregory “Mick” Schwent will retire after serving with the Ste Genevieve Fire Department for 50 years. Schwent served 5 years as a firefighter, 8 years as the training officer, 20 years as an assistant chief, and 17 years as chief. During his time he has driven home the need for training and was instrumental in bringing Fire Fighter 1 & 2 training to the department. He directed the purchase of numerous improvements in the vehicle fleet and oversaw the construction of the current firehouse in 2006. Schwent was a third-generation firefighter, his grandpa Alex Schwent (52 years), father Stanley (33 years), and brother Stanley Jr. (21 years) also were firefighters. Combined they have over 156 years of service to the community. Schwent was presented with a retirement axe and certificate of appreciation at a recent awards banquet.
Also presented at the banquet was Battalion Chief Felix Meyer with a 40-years of service pin. Captain Mike Brocato received the Firefighter of the Year award. Captains Justin Donovan, Charlie Wibbenmeyer, and Lieutenant Bo Caldwell were all presented with Fire Chiefs Appreciation Certificates.
FFAM
