On Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at a Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Orland Fire Protection District, held at the Orland Park Civic Center, the Board of Trustees administered the Oaths of Office to recently named Fire Chief/Administrator John Purtill, Deputy Chief – Operations Joshua Girdick and Deputy Chief – Administration Shawn Richards.

Retired Fire Chiefs Robert Buhs and Michael Schofield spoke to the many qualities that make a great Chief, the same qualities held by these 3 newly appointed Chiefs. They spoke of Chief Purtill and Deputy Chief Girdick’s many accomplishments with the Orland Fire District, and to the qualities and experience being brought to the district by Deputy Chief Richards.

First, Chief Schofield spoke about Deputy Chief Richards’ many accomplishments and the experiences that will benefit the Orland Fire District. Trustee Jeffers administered Deputy Chief Richard’s Oath of Office, and his wife and daughters pinned his badge.

Next, Chief Schofield spoke of being the Lieutenant on Deputy Chief Girdick’s shift when he started with the OFPD, and that he and Chief Buhs were very impressed and knew he would go far in his fire career. He learned as much as he could and took on managing the Cadet Program, was appointed EMS Director and even served as the Union President. Board President Damas Kaspar administered Deputy Chief Girdick’s Oath of Office, and his wife and daughter pinned his badge. He said a few words and thanked the board for this opportunity and his family for their love and support.

Lastly, Chief Buhs introduced Fire Chief Purtill. Chief Buhs noted Purtill rose through the ranks serving in every fire district position and is professionally familiar with every responsibility at every level. “Let me tell you a little bit about John. Most firefighters do not begin their careers thinking about one day becoming Fire Chief, but when you look at John's background, his experience, and the way he has carried himself throughout his career, you can see that from that moment, it did not happen by choice. It is the result of years of steady growth, commitment, and leadership.” Trustee Tolan administered Fire Chief/Administrator Purtill’s Oath of Office and his wife and children pinned his badge. Chief Purtill addressed the audience, thanking the district personnel and the community for their support, and thanking his family for their love and understanding, as firefighter families know the sacrifices of dad not being able to be home for a holiday or at a sports event while on shift.

Chief Schofield closed the ceremony stating he believes these 3 appointments to the Command Staff, bringing together the experience and history from within of Girdick and Purtill, and the experiences and outside view from Richards, will take the OFPD to a greater tomorrow!

Congratulations Chiefs!