Oswego Fire Chief Steps Down, His Successor Appointed

OSWEGO, IL — Oswego Fire Chief John Cornish has stepped down from his role, officials announced Thursday.

The former chief, who has held the title since 2022, was replaced by Joshua Flanders, who previously served as deputy chief.

"We would like to thank Chief John Cornish for his many years of faithful and dedicated service to our department and the community," OFPD officials said, adding that Flanders will lead the department "forward with courage, compassion, and commitment."

As of Thursday, Cornish already departed from the role but remains with the Oswego Fire Protection District as he awaits a determination on his pension application.

Cornish served in the United States Marine Corps, worked as a police officer after leaving, and later joined the Coast Guard. On Sept. 1, 2002, he joined the Oswego Fire Protection District as a firefighter and paramedic before climbing the ranks and becoming chief in 2022.

"Chief Cornish's journey began with humble roots and culminated in a legacy of service," officials said in the release.