Oxford Fire Chief-designate Ben Stewart received the chief’s badge during the traditional pinning ceremony designated for the occasion during the January 27, 2026 regular session of the Oxford City Council.

Witnessed by a council chamber filled with members of the Oxford Fire Department in dress uniforms, Fire Chief Gary Sparks administered the oath of office where Stewart swore to “serve the citizens of the city of Oxford with compassion, courage, and integrity.”

Sparks then pinned the chief’s badge onto Stewart’s uniform.

Stewart will officially begin the position on February 1, 2026.

“I first give all glory to God,” Stewart said. “I have been fortunate enough to have been safe in this career, and I’ve had a lot of people protect me. I give thanks to my family. In public safety, there are times we’re not home, and it takes a lot of support from our families to do what we love to do.”

Stewart thanked Mayor Alton Craft and the members of the city council for their support.

“But most of all, I am honored serve with the men and women of the Oxford Fire Department,” Stewart said. “You mean a lot to both Chief Sparks and me. Every day is a challenge, and Chief Sparks has set a good foundation with good people.”

“The only thing I can say is that we’re now working to make it better, and next Monday we’re going to start working to make it better,” he said. “That will be one of our missions. Every day, we’re going to get better.”

“He is going to do a good job,” Craft said. “He’s a fine man, and I’m glad to have him on our team.”