Firefighting dad hands son first officer’s helmet.

Firefighting dad hands son first officer’s helmet.

HESPERIA — It’s a special occasion to receive your first officer’s helmet when you’re a firefighter. It’s even more special when the person bestowing that helmet is your dad.

Deputy Chief Tim VanAvery handed his son, Tyler VanAvery, his first officer’s helmet Wednesday evening, May 4. The younger VanAvery was promoted to lieutenant. 

The older VanAvery stepped down as an officer for the department, but will continue his public service as a firefighter.

“Tonight was a special night,” states a post on the department’s Facebook page. “Deputy Chief Tim VanAvery handed his son Tyler VanAvery is first officer’s helmet. We would like to congratulate Tyler our new lieutenant 1905!

“Also, we would like to congratulate Tim VanAvery as tonight was his last night as an officer. His life has guided him to step down to just a firefighter. His years of dedication to the department as an officer are much appreciated. We look forward to him being there still and helping us when he can. Bitter sweet night.”

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