Comments:
After obtaining my BS degree in animal science at NMSU, now Truman State University in Kirksville, MO, I decided not to pursue Veterinary School at Mizzou. I worked for the City of St. Charles for 5 years after working in an animal hospital and at a boat marina. I enjoyed being a building inspector with St. Charles (even ran into a few different classmates while doing it) but did not like the drive and time away from the family. I switched my career to fire science and began working for the Alton Fire Department in May, 2000. I obtained my AAS degree in fire science from Lewis & Clark Community College and also became an EMT. Shortly after which I obtained my paramedic license and have spent most of my career on Advanced Life Support apparatus. I currently drive Rescue1 out of Station #1 on the third shift. I was promoted to Engineer in January 2007 after several reductions within the department. I'm currently on the Captain promotional list. I have been trying to obtain officer rank for numerous years due to further reductions of personnel and rank positions.
I married my wife, Mehlia Lynn Banghart, on December 27, 1997 at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Portage des Sioux, MO. She has been an elementary teacher, mainly 3rd grade, for 16 years prior to becoming the Art Teacher for Orchard Farm Elementary School in Northern St. Charles County.
We reside in Alton, IL as required by my job. We built our dream home and moved in August 2005 on the northeast edge of Alton in the most rural setting possible. I would love to have 50 acres with woods and ponds but that is not possible in the city limits of Alton. Our busy life revolves around our children,our jobs and what time is left is spent at home. We mostly spend our time with our kids' sporting events. We spend our summers boating on the Mississippi & Illinois rivers and try to vacation with our family when possible.
