Nahant Fire Dept. appoints photographer

NAHANT-Firefighter Paul Wilson, who hung up his turnout gear in June after 32 years with the department, will continue to serve the fire department and town in a new capacity.At the Board of Selectmen meeting last Thursday, the selectmen voted unanimously to appoint Wilson as the official fire department photographer.Nahant Town Administrator Mark Cullinan recommended the appointment, which was enthusiastically received by the selectmen.?He retired but he can’t leave,” Cullinan quipped.Cullinan said it is not unusual for fire departments to have official photographers and the photographs would be a useful investigative tool and helpful in chronicling the history of the department.Selectman Robert Frary said Wilson is an excellent photographer and he supported his appointment.?He has the gift of photography,” Frary said. “And he has the eye for it.”Cullinan said it is a volunteer position and Wilson would not be paid for his services.Selectman Richard Lombard said Wilson was both an exemplary firefighter and town employee.The new appointment went into effect immediately.Cullinan told the selectmen the fire department usually has no more than 20 call firefighters. He said the department currently has 18 call firefighters and several of them are expected to retire this year, so he recommended the selectmen vote to appoint four new call firefighters ? Lynn residents Keith Olbash and Sean Carritte were appointed along with Scott Grieves of Nahant and Joseph Buzem of Saugus. The vote to appoint the four new call firefighters was unanimous.