Bristol Fire Commission swears in new firefighter, approves request for deputy chief promotional testing

At a special meeting, the Bristol Fire Commission swore in a new firefighter and approved a motion to request promotional testing for the rank of deputy chief, Mayor Mara Ellen Zapposasu said.

Mayor Mara Ellen Zapposasu opened the meeting by welcoming families and introducing commission members before asking the newest firefighter, Luke Martin, to come forward to be sworn in. Deputy and retired officers administered oaths to multiple promoted members and leaders during the ceremony.

"This is a great day for the Bristol Fire Department, swearing in 1 new member and the promotions," the chief said, praising the officers and calling the event "a great day" for the department. The mayor thanked attendees and invited those pinned to the evening's promotions to take photographs near the flags.

After the ceremonial swearing-in and remarks, Captain Jandreau moved "to request the promotional testing for the rank of deputy chief." The motion was seconded as recorded in the meeting and, after the chair called for a voice vote, an "Aye" was voiced and the chair announced, "Motion carries." The vote was taken by voice; no roll-call tally of individual yes/no votes was recorded in the transcript.

The meeting concluded after a motion to adjourn was made and approved. Attendees were encouraged to remain for photos with family and department leadership.

Details from the meeting record show the department swore in Luke Martin as the newest firefighter and administered oaths associated with promotions to Lieutenant Devin Utelson, Lieutenant Sanchez, Captain Delaventure and to Deputy Chief Scully; the transcript identifies retired captain Dana Gendro and others as participants in administering those oaths. Names and roles were announced from the dais during the ceremony.