Edwardsville Fire Lieutenant Sworn In, First Responders Awarded

EDWARDSVILLE – This week’s Edwardsville City Council meeting marked a ceremonious evening for Edwardsville first responders.

Cole Schrage was officially sworn in as the city’s newest Fire Lieutenant on April 7, 2026. City Clerk Michelle Boyer administered his Oath of Office.

At the same meeting, Edwardsville Police Officer Wesley Nolden and EMT/Paramedic Chris Hartsoe were presented with VFW Public Servant Awards.

VFW Post 1299 Quartermaster Larry Miller highlighted the pair’s professional accomplishments before presenting them with their respective awards.

Miller said Nolden has been with the Edwardsville Police Department since 2009 and currently serves the department in multiple roles as a field training officer, crime scene investigator and bike control officer. Last year, Nolden took on additional responsibilities as the acting A Squad supervisor during a sergeant vacancy.

“He’s recognized as a steady professional, and a go-to officer for complex calls,” Miller said of Nolden. His Certificate of Appreciation was presented “with grateful recognition of unwavering adherence to the highest ideals of law enforcement and maintaining, preserving, and protecting the rights of all citizens,” Miller said.

Miller noted Hartsoe “is recognized as a top-tier paramedic in our region” and has received several prior commendations for his lifesaving efforts.

“Chris has performed admirably in very difficult circumstances and can bring a calming prescience to these scenes through his attitude, abilities, and professionalism,” Miller said of Hartsoe. “He shows the utmost respect and empathy to his patients and families, which helps alleviate their fears and anxieties.”

Hartsoe was then presented with his certificate, which recognizes his “exemplary service to humanity by administering emergency medical assistance.”

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