Swearing In Ceremony
HARWICH – The Harwich Fire Department held a swearing in ceremony today at the Public Safety Facility for new firefighter Christina Brown. Brown, a firefighter paramedic that has worked as a provisional firefighter with the department on two separate occasions was hired to replace Firefighter Buck Mabile, who recently retired after an injury.
Chief Norman Clarke Jr. presided over the ceremony Harwich Town Clerk Anita Doucette performed the swearing in and Firefighter Brown’s father, Dennis Deputy Fire Chief Robert Brown, pinned her badge on as part of the ceremony.
As part of the ceremony Deputy Fire Chief David LeBlanc presented Town Clerk Anita Doucette with a plaque naming her an Honorary Assistant Chief for the Harwich Fire Department. Since the Department began these formal swearing in ceremonies, Anita has been a valuable part of the process and supported the Department and the department decided to recognize her for this continued support. The plaque was provided by the Harwich Fire Association.
Firefighters Kevin Duquette and Ryan Avery were presented with the permanent helmet front pieces. Both firefighters recently completed their one year probationary period. During this time they wear an orange helmet front piece, signifying that they are on probation. One their years’ probation in complete, firefighters receive a front piece that signifies the company they are assigned to. Firefighter Avery received an Engine 65 front piece and Firefighter Duquette received a Ladder 66 front piece.
In every fire department mission statement the goal of saving civilians lives is the first priority, yet fortunately it is not a frequent occurrence. In October and December of 2016, the Harwich Fire Department responded two separate fires with occupants in the building. Deputy Chief David LeBlanc and Captain Donald Parker were both recognized by Chief Clarke for rescuing occupants from these fires.
The ceremony was attended by friends, family, town officials and members from surrounding fire departments.
Photos by Craig S Chadwick/CWN
