MARBLEHEAD — The Fire Department welcomed six new members into its ranks Monday evening at Abbot Hall.
Monsignor Timothy Moran, who was sworn in as chaplain, led the room in a reflective invocation prayer before the swearing-in began.
Fire Chief Jason Gilliland then explained that Monday’s ceremony had an extra-special meaning.
“A swearing-in ceremony is a time-honored fire service tradition…. But there is also another tradition we are going to celebrate tonight and you’re gonna witness for the first time in a long time the sons, daughters, sisters, brothers that are following their parents in the business of firefighting.”
William W. Boardway followed in the footsteps of his father, a Marblehead firefighter, and his great-grandfather, a Salem firefighter. Joseph M. Thibodeau’s brother also served as a firefighter. Gilliland’s son, Liam F. Gilliland was also among the new members of the department.
Town Clerk Robin A. Michaud presided over the ceremony, leading each of the new members in their pledges to protect, serve, and honor the people and town of Marblehead.
Thibodeau was sworn in as a captain, Liam Gilliland was sworn in as a lieutenant, and Boardway, Richard A. Ehlert, and John K. Morris were sworn in as firefighters.
After the ceremony, Chief Gilliland said it was a “proud moment” for the entire department.
“All the positions are certainly well-deserved. They … studied very hard…. They did a great job. The three new firefighters are awesome, and we are very happy to have Monsignor Moran as our new chaplain.”
Emma Fringuelli can be reached at [email protected].
