Swampscott firefighters honored

SWAMPSCOTT – They have more than 270 years of firefighting experience between them.The Swampscott Fire Department and the state are recognizing 11 Swampscott firefighters with the Firefighter Service Award, which is presented to firefighters with more than 20 years of experience in five-year increments.Fire Chief Michael Champion, who has been with the department for 37 years, said the longevity of firefighters in the department speaks volumes about their dedication.”They are here for the long haul,” he said. “These guys are really dedicated. It’s more than a job for us – it’s a career. Many of them take additional courses and we all undergo continual training.”Champion, who has been with the department the longest, is receiving the award for 35 years of service. Deputy Chief Kevin Breen, Capt. Kevin Thompson and Capt. John Quinn are all receiving the award for 30 years of dedication to the department. Lt. James Snow is being recognized for 25 years service as a firefighter. Department members being recognized for 20 years of services are Capt. James Potts, Lt. Remo Zimbaldi, Lt. Robert Surette and firefighters Kevin Clark, Robert Randall and Timothy Sweeney.Zimbaldi, who has been with the department almost 24 years, said he started his firefighting career in Swampscott and he can’t imagine working anywhere else.”It’s a great department,” he said. “Joining this department is the best move I ever made. It’s funny I never really wanted to be a firefighter and a Somerville firefighter suggested I take the exam. I took it on a whim and I can’t imagine doing anything else. I really love the job and will never leave.”Potts said he doesn’t have any intention of leaving either.”I’m happy working here,” he said. “I fit here. I’m not planning on leaving here until they make me. I have a career I like and am working with a great group of people.”Town Administrator Andrew Maylor congratulated the 11 firefighters on behalf of the town.”We recognize the tenure and experience of the firefighters in our department,” he said. “We would like to offer our congratulations for the job they are doing.”