Two years after he was critically injured in a tragic fire that claimed the life of his colleague, a New Haven firefighter was promoted.

Somond Rankin had a long journey from the May 2021 fire that claimed Riccardo Torres, Jr., including a fight to return to the job and get the promotion.

“I’m grateful, I’m thankful, I’m blessed for this promotion for me tonight. It’s very emotional tonight. I’m just trying to get through it, but I’m very happy, very excited that everyone came out to support me, and I’m very appreciative,” Rankins. told WFSB.com.

Rankins said he was cleared by medical authorities to return to work, but the city denied that. During that time, he was unable to promote.

He claimed he was medically cleared to return to the department but wasn’t allowed to, which led to him being passed up for promotions.

He returned to full-day earlier this year and was eligible for the promotion this week as he shared the stage with others taking on new ranks.

“It’s good to see him back, it was a long haul for him and we wish him every success,” said New Haven Assistant Fire Chief John Alston.