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Ottawa welcomes new probationary firefighter

Hobbs to attend Illinois Fire Service Institute Academy, complete paramedic training as next steps

February 28, 2025 at 11:53 am CST

Firefighter Derrick Hobbs shakes hands with Deputy Fire Chief Michael Mills during his swearing-in ceremony as Ottawa Fire's newest probationary firefighter. — Firefighter Derrick Hobbs shakes hands with Deputy Fire Chief Michael Mills during his swearing-in ceremony as Ottawa's newest probationary firefighter. (Photo Provided by Ottawa Fire Department)

Firefighter Derrick Hobbs was sworn in as Ottawa Fire Department’s newest probationary firefighter on Thursday afternoon.

He will join Shift One as he begins his career in the fire service.

As part of his probationary process, Hobbs will attend the Illinois Fire Service Institute Academy. Afterward, he will undergo the necessary medical training to become a paramedic.

Bill Freskos

Bill Freskos is a multimedia journalist based in the Illinois Valley. He covers hard news, local government, sports, business enterprise, and politics while contributing to Shaw Local Radio stations for Shaw Media across La Salle, Bureau, and Putnam counties.