DANBURY, CT - At 10:30 A.M. on Sunday, March 17th, the Danbury Fire Department spent their Saint Patrick’s Day making major improvements with their personnel. Chief Richard Thode thanked the large crowd for attending and said this is the largest promotional ceremony the department has ever had since they were organized in 1889. Senator Richard Blumenthal and Danbury Mayor Roberto Alves also spoke and said how grateful they are to have such talented firefighters who are willing the help the public no matter what type of incident occurs.

Chief Thode recognized the previous administration for their hard work and the new administration for their constant support. Chief Thode acknowledged the family members and thanked them for the sacrifices they constantly make with their loved ones, especially throughout the time it takes to study for these promotional exams.

Danbury Professional Firefighters Local 801 President Chris Daly discussed how well the union and Chief worked together to restructure the department. Each company will now have a captain and three lieutenants for better oversight and accountability. They said this will allow better mentorship and teaching while discussing how each probationary firefighter remembers their first officer who trained them. President Daly said the union collectively works to lookout for each other’s safety and that he is very lucky to have a great relationship with the chief so they can move the department forward together.

Four members from Local 801 were promoted to captain, six became lieutenants, two became deputy fire marshals and 15 new firefighters had their badges pinned. Multiple firefighters and civilians from the city were then given commendation awards for their selfless and heroic acts they had performed over the past couple of years. Good luck to everyone in their new roles!