Wilmington Fire Chief John Looney has announced the appointment of Andre Cooper (Left) as Deputy Chief of Fire Prevention and City Fire Marshal. Deputy Chief Cooper brings 32 years of service to his new position, having advanced through the ranks of the Wilmington Fire Department as a Lieutenant, Captain, and most recently, Battalion Chief in Fire District 1 on the A Platoon. Throughout his career, he has served in various engine and ladder companies across the city as well as in the Fire Marshal’s Office.
Chief Looney also announced a series of promotions within the department. Captain Michael Khairzada Center Left) has been promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief. A 27-year veteran of the Wilmington Fire Department, Battalion Chief Khairzada has served in several engine and ladder companies and has been part of the Department’s Marine Unit. He will now command Fire District 1 on the A Platoon.
Lieutenant Andrew Bowerson (Center Right)has been promoted to the rank of Captain. Captain Bowerson, who has served with the department for 13 years, brings experience from both ladder companies and the Department’s Safety and Training Unit. He has been assigned to Engine Company 2 on the C Platoon.
Senior Firefighter Michael Wiktorowicz Sr. (Right) has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. A 14-year veteran, Lieutenant Wiktorowicz has served in both ladder and squad companies citywide. He has been assigned to the Department’s Safety and Training Unit in his new role.
These leadership appointments and promotions reflect the department’s continued commitment to experience, professionalism, and operational excellence within the City of Wilmington.