News File Photo Ryan Mendyka, second from left, is seen during a pinning ceremony in January 2018.

HARRISVILLE — The Harrisville Fire Department has promoted Ryan Mendyka to Chief Medical Officer .

When Bonnie Dunn decided to step down from the position last month, Mendyka offered to fill the role. He brings years of service and experience.

Mendyka has been part of the Harrisville Fire Department since April 2009, and is also on the Lincoln Fire Department.

As a licensed first-responder, he is well-versed on the demands of emergency services, and providing assistance as one of the first people on the scene of a crash or other emergency. He is looking forward to continuing to serve the community.

“It is an honor,” Mendyka said of the new position. “I will continue to give my best efforts to serve the community and do the job.”

In this new role, Mendyka will be in charge of maintaining all supplies, tools, and maintenance of the rescue vehicles to ensure they can do their job for the community.

He will also be in charge of making sure all first responders take the necessary training credits to maintain their licenses.

As for Dunn, Mendkya said she is still working for the department and an integral part of the organization as a first-responder.

Kaitlin Ryan can be reached at kryan@thealpenanews.com or at 358-5693.