The Columbus Fire Department is proud to announce the promotion of two dedicated members. Lieutenant Bryan Bailey has been promoted to the rank of Captain, and Firefighter Ben Noblitt has been promoted to Lieutenant.

Captain Bryan Bailey is a 16-year veteran of the department. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2022 and has continued to demonstrate exceptional leadership, professionalism, and commitment to service. During his career with the Columbus Fire Department, Captain Bailey has served as the President of the Local 2190 Professional Firefighter Union, Pension Board Secretary, Fire Department Color Guard Team and Chairman of the Columbus Firemen’s Cheer Fund.

Lieutenant Ben Noblitt has served the Columbus Fire Department for 15 years. Throughout his career, he has shown strong dedication to operational excellence and a continual drive to grow within the department. His promotion to Lieutenant recognizes his proven capabilities and readiness to take on greater leadership responsibilities. Lieutenant Noblitt also served as the Chairman of the Columbus Firemen’s Cheer Fund.

The Columbus Fire Department’s promotions process is a multi‑faceted evaluation designed to assess the readiness of prospective officers. Each candidate must successfully complete a written examination, an oral interview, and a tactical assessment evaluation. In addition, candidate training histories and service records are thoroughly reviewed to ensure that each promoted officer meets the department’s high standards of leadership and performance. Columbus Fire Chief Andy Lay praised the officers’ accomplishments.

“I am proud to announce the promotion of Captain Bryan Bailey and Lt. Ben Noblitt. Through their hard work and determination, they have shown that they lead from the front and act with unwavering integrity to place others over self, serving as the example that inspires others,” said Columbus Fire Chief Andy Lay.

The Columbus Fire Department congratulates Captain Bailey and Lieutenant Noblitt on their achievements and looks forward to their continued leadership and service to the community. Officer promotions are effective Monday, May 18, 2026, and will fill officer vacancies left by May 8 retirement of Captain Dave Dwyer, who retired with 47 years of service with the Columbus Fire Department.