News Flash

A group of dedicated Key West High School students graduated this morning from the Key West Fire Department’s Firefighters Academy. Proud families, members of the Key West Fire Department, and City officials were on hand during the ceremony to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of these students who have invested two years of training for their future careers as first responders. The ceremony was held at the Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum.

These students earned certifications in Firefighter I, Emergency Medical Responder, and Hazmat Awareness. The graduations marks the completion of physical training, over 191 hours of Firefighter I training, and more than 50 hours of Emergency Medical Responder training. Part of that training put them in the face of real-life firefighting challenges that tested their courage and determination.

Capt. Dereck Berger, who oversees the Academy, praised the group for the tenacity it requires to finish the academy, noting that they would do their grueling physical training in the early hours before heading off to a full day of high school.

“I am proud of your dedication, sacrifice, and perseverance,” Capt. Berger told the group. “As we have told you throughout the year, firefighting is one of the most honorable and rewarding professions you can choose. Whether you pursue this career or another path, this academy has prepared you for success. Carry forward the discipline, courage, and teamwork you have gained here, and let it guide you wherever life takes you.”

Fire Chief Alan Averette congratulated the students and said he hopes they pursue a career in firefighting and EMS. He pointed out that many of the current members of the department began as graduates of the academy.

The two-year fire academy trains future firefighters while they’re attending their final two years of high school and provides them, upon completion, the equivalent training of a Certified Firefighter I, which puts them halfway through the training required to become a Key West Firefighter.

The City of Key West and the City Commission today honored Key West Firefighter Lt. Brandon Ward for his 20 years of service to the City.

Lt. Ward started with the fire department in 2006. In 2018 he was promoted to Lieutenant. He is a Driver Engineer, State Certified Haz-Mat Tech, and serves on the Haz-Mat Team.

“His greatest attributes.” Said Fire Chief Alan Averette, “are that he is a leader, a mentor, a roll model for the younger firefighters of the Key West Fire Department.

“When a new firefighter starts on his watch,” Chief Averette continued, “he goes out of his way to take them a side and teaches them the right way to do things. His patience and strong communication skills are second to none. He is a true leader.”

Gazing up at the particularly tall firefighter, Chief Averette said, “Last thing I have to say about Brandon is that everyone in the KWFD looks up to him. Literally.”  

Join us for Key West Day with the Miami Marlins and celebrate our island community at the ballpark.  This City-sponsored event is a fun way to show your Key West pride while supporting a great local cause.  For every ticket sold through this special offer, $5 will be donated to the Key West Police Athletic League (PAL) to help provide youth sports, activities, and educational programs that build confidence, character, and positive relationships between local youth, law enforcement, and the community.  Additionally, every ticket includes a special Key West Day shirt.  Come out, enjoy the game, and help support the next generation of Key West.

At Loandepot Park, the Cleveland Guardians vs. the Miami Marlins at 4:10 PM on July 11, 2026

Tickets: $37.74 - $61.97

To Purchase Your Discounted Tickets:

1. Select your desired seat location(s) 
2. Select the quantity of tickets and click the "Continue" button
3. Confirm and submit payment
4. Get ready to enjoy the Marlins game!  Tickets are located on the MLB Ballpark app under the email you used to make your purchase.

Ticket Delivery:

You will receive an email from noreply@fevogm.com with a receipt of your purchase and instructions to access your tickets in the MLB Ballpark app. 

Questions?

For questions or assistance, please contact Ashley Scheinfeldt at ascheinfeldt@marlins.com or 3

The City of Key West wants to welcome our newest firefighter, Wyatt Kuhn.

Kuhn is a 2023 graduate of Key West High School, where he played competitive baseball. He continued his academic and athletic career at Dyersburg State Community College, earning his associate degree while competing at the collegiate level.  Following his time in college athletics, Kuhn transitioned his focus toward public service, completing his fire service preparation at the Joe London Fire Training Academy in Grassy Key.

Now serving with the City of Key West Fire Department, Wyatt Kuhn brings discipline, teamwork, and dedication to protecting the lives and property of the community he calls home.

The City of Key West wants to congratulate Michael Anderson for his New Role from the Fire Prevention Fire Marshal's office where he had the title of Lieutenant Inspector to the Fire Emergency Management and Training Division as Lieutenant.

A fifth-generation Conch born and raised in Key West, Anderson began his career with the department in March of 2015. Throughout his service, he has earned numerous State of Florida certifications, including Paramedic, Pump Operator, Fire Investigator, Life Safety Inspector, HAZMAT Technician, Incident Safety Officer, Fire Officer II, Live Fire Training Instructor, and Lead Instructor for the department.

In 2023, he was promoted to Lieutenant Inspector with the Fire Prevention Fire Marshal's Office and now serves in the Emergency Management and Training Division, where he continues to play an important role in strengthening departmental readiness and supporting community safety.

Anderson is currently pursuing a master's degree in Fire Executive Leadership with a concentration in Emergency Services Management. The City of Key West proudly recognizes Michael Anderson for his continued service and leadership within the Key West Fire Department.

Retired members of the Key West Fire Department gathered at the Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum to be recognized for their years of service and dedication to the community. The gathering honored both the department’s proud history and the firefighters who helped shape it, as Key West celebrates more than 150 years since its formal establishment in 1875.

The museum, located at the historic Firehouse No. 3 on Grinnell Street, provided a fitting backdrop for former firefighters to share stories, reconnect with colleagues, and reflect on the legacy of service that continues today.  The group included retirees who had served in roles ranging from firefighter, lieutenant, captain, to battalion chief, division chief, and fire chief.  Each played a crucial role in shaping the department's mission and ensuring the safety of Key West residents and visitors.

The devotion of these retired firefighters stands as a testament to the bravery and commitment that have kept the island safe for generations.

Front Row, Left to Right: Jerry Smith, Billy Wardlow, Tim Fahey, Onelio Alvarez, Peter Diaz, Danny Stephenson, Al Rahming, Alex Vega, Denise Bogeoff

Back Row, Left to Right: Jason Barroso, Terry Blanco, Joey Hughes, Waye Owen, Steve Wells, Danny Gallardo, Craig Marston, Mike Budde, Alan Vidal, Raymond Casamayor, Stuart Andrews, Chris Saunders, Danny Blanco, Ron Herrington, Robert Malone, Ray Alvarez, Michael Davila

The City of Key West Fire Department is pleased to announce the promotion of Randy Monahan to Lieutenant in the Fire Prevention Division.

Lt. Monahan joined the department in 2018 as a Firefighter/Paramedic and served in that role prior to his promotion. Since that time, he has contributed to both operational and instructional efforts within the department.

Lt. Monahan is a certified Paramedic Instructor and EVOC Instructor and serves as a mentor with the Key West High School Fire Academy.  He is a member of the department's Hazardous Materials, Dive, and Urban Search and Rescue teams.

In 2025, he was recognized as Instructor of the Year. He is currently completing a master’s degree in emergency management.

“His promotion to Lieutenant,” said Fire Chief Alan Averette, “reflects his leadership, experience, and continued commitment to advancing public safety through fire prevention, education, and community service.”

Key West Fire Chief Alan Averette recognized Rosco Mosblech for his five years of service to the Key West Fire Department and his continued commitment to protecting the community.

Mosblech serves as a paramedic and is a member of the KWFD Dive Team as a certified rescue diver. His specialized training and service support the department’s mission and contribute to the safety and well-being of Key West residents and visitors.

His dedication reflects the professionalism and teamwork that strengthen the department and help keep the island community safe.

On April 6, 2026, Fire Chief Alan Averette recognized Logan Neller for his five years of service to the Key West Fire Department and his continued dedication to the community.

Neller serves as a paramedic, an acting driver/engineer, and a member of the KWFD Dive Team. His commitment to the department reflects a strong tradition of service within his family. He entered the fire service inspired by his Stepfather, Karl Wagner, who has served the department for more than 20 years, and his Father-in-Law, Commander Chris Saunders, who has served the KWFD for more than 30 years.

His service represents the continued dedication and professionalism that help keep the Key West community safe.

The City of Key West wants to welcome Matt Schilling to the team!

Schilling, who recently joined the City of Key West as a firefighter, has been a Lower Keys resident since 2014. He previously served in the United States Marine Corps and the U.S. Forest Service. He also has worked as a private tree service contractor. Schilling brings a strong work ethic and practical experience to his role and is honored to serve the residents and visitors of Key West.

The City of Key West is proud to announce the promotion of Tyler Jones to Lieutenant Inspector in the Fire Prevention/Fire Marshal’s office.

Jones is a third-generation firefighter with the Key West Fire Department, where he has proudly served since 2017. A native of Key West, he has deep roots in the community and a lifelong commitment to public service.

Throughout his career, Jones has demonstrated strong dedication to both fire suppression and emergency medical care. In 2023 he earned his certification as a paramedic, further enhancing his ability to serve the residents and visitors of Key West with advanced emergency medical support.

His promotion from the position of Paramedic is an achievement that reflects his professionalism, experience, and commitment to the fire service. He remains honored to serve in this leadership role while continuing his family’s legacy of service to the Key West community.

Key West Firefighter/Paramedic Dereck Berger was promoted to Captain, in the Fire Prevention Division on Monday.

Capt. Berger joined the Key West Fire Department on April 30, 2012. He was promoted to the rank of Driver/Engineer in December of 2020. In 2022, he was promoted as a Lieutenant to the Fire Prevention Division, where his roles included plan reviews, coordinating special events, and conducting fire safety inspections. With this promotion, he continues his dedication to leadership and service within the department.

The official pinning was a family celebration. Capt. Berger was joined by his wife Alyssa, his mother Debbie, his father-in-law Fire Chief Alan Averette, and his two daughters Livia and Lainey.

Fire Chief Alan Averette presented Capt. Timothy Anson, with his new badge, was named Fire Marshal. Capt. Anson's wife Robin pinned the new badge on his uniform.

Anson has been with the Key West Fire Department for nearly 20 years.  Over the past few years, he has been the guiding force behind the Key West High School Fire Academy. 

The City of Key West is proud to release its 2024–2025 Annual Report, highlighting the accomplishments of the past two years.

“Over the past year,” said City Manager Brian L. Barroso, “the City of Key West has achieved important milestones that will have a lasting, positive impact on our residents and visitors alike. These accomplishments reflect not only the work of City government, but the shared commitment of an engaged and resilient community.”

The report highlights the City’s accomplishments and provides the community with a quick, accessible guide to the various departments that serve our citizens. It also provides a handy reference for the community to easily access budgets, contacts, and services.

“While the past year has not been without challenges,” said Barroso, “we continue to move forward together. I invite you to review this report and share your thoughts as we work to better serve the Key West community.”

On Monday, the Key West Fire Academy conducted fire extinguisher training at Station 3. The training covered several topics including the different types of fires, appropriate fire extinguisher usage, and handling techniques in emergency situations. It was a hands-on experience where the students had the opportunity to practice using fire extinguishers in simulated fire scenarios. The instructors provided detailed guidance on the proper use of extinguishers, emphasizing the importance of quick and effective action in containing fires.

Retired Key West Fire Department Captain Jeffrey Hernández's generous donation of his time and multiple fire extinguishers enabled our students to receive hands-on training, enhancing their skills and readiness in fire emergency situations. His commitment to our training program is deeply appreciated, and his contribution will have a lasting impact on the development of our future firefighters.