WATERFORD, CT - At 6:00 P.M. on Wednesday, August 30th, the Waterford Fire Service held a promotional ceremony and badge pinning in the Town Hall Auditorium. Director of Fire Services Michael Howley welcomed the crowd and made some opening remarks. Stephen Dubicki, Jr. was promoted to fire marshal while Spencer Bauch was promoted to fire inspector.

Four new firefighters were then sworn in by the town clerk, which brings each shift to five full timers. Anthony Trevino was in the United States Army and then became a volunteer before getting hired as a part timer for the town and is now excited to make it his career. Cristian Velasquez used to be a part timer in Waterford and was working for the Mashantucket Pequot Fire Department before becoming a part of Local 4629. Chase Swinburne is joining the ranks after gaining experience with the East Lyme and Mohegan Tribal Fire Departments. Kevin Dougherty is from Killingworth and worked for the Montville Fire Department before getting hired in Waterford.

Recognition was then given to volunteers who have been active throughout the town while completing multiple certification classes over the past two years. Fire Police Officer Smitty Beals was recognized for his decades of service while always being willing to assist the fire and police departments with any traffic and community needs.

First Selectman Robert Brule addressed the crowd and discussed how important it is for the fire and police departments, as well as the ambulance association and the utility commission to all be on the same page working together as one. Brule said it’s his goal to make Waterford the state’s best combination fire department. He talked about how important his ride along was while learning the different aspects of the fire service. Chaplin Ben Sheldon gave a closing prayer and wished everyone safe careers.