Independence Fire/EMS Chief Shawn Wallis has announced the promotion of Keith Matlock to the rank of lieutenant within the department.
Matlock works under the direction of Captain Keith Copithke, and in his new role, he will manage the operations of his shift and assume the captain’s duties as necessary in Copithke’s absence.
Matlock joined the department in January 2013 and has served as a firefighter/paramedic. He received his paramedic education at Coffeyville Community College and fire science training from Hutchinson Community College. He earned his Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification from Independence Community College.
“In Keith’s four years with the department, he has demonstrated true dedication and a strong commitment to excellent performance in every assignment, every call, every day,” Wallis said. “I’m excited to see him embrace this leadership opportunity.”
Matlock says he enjoys the dynamics of working in the field of emergency response.
“On the EMS side, I love the people we take care of. I like to see the sigh of relief on their face when we’ve helped them,” he said. “And I love the fire side - the adrenaline rush!”
Matlock and his wife, Gayle, together have five children: Cole, 13; James, 12; Brooklynn, 10; Oliver, 6; and Henry, 4.