Celebrating Medfield Fire Department New Hires

Medfield Fire Department Welcomes New Hires At Swearing In-Pinning Ceremony

On July 29th, a very warm Tuesday evening, eight new firefighters gathered in the Public Safety Training Room to be sworn in and pinned surrounded by their friends, families and current members of the Medfield Fire Department.

Those who were being sworn in sat with their friends and family as Chief Bill DeKing welcomed everyone and said a few words before the ceremony.

"Good evening, everyone. On behalf of the Medfield Fire Department, I want to welcome you to this
special occasion. As most of you are aware we have had some significant changes to our department over the last year. Tonight, we are here not only to recognize the dedication and hard work of the men and women gathered here tonight, but also to honor the families, friends, and mentors who have supported them along the way, without your support they would not be where they are today.

We talk a lot about being a family here at the station, after all we live together and support each other for 24 hours at a time, however you are the real strength and stability they will need throughout their career.

We have a lot of traditions in the fire service and I firmly believe this pinning ceremony should be one we at the Medfield Fire Department continue. It is a proud moment for these new firefighters to be able to share with their friends and family. It is my privilege as Chief to share this moment with all of you."

Each of the new firefighters were sworn in by Town Clerk, Marion Bonoldi, followed by being pinned by the person they chose to do that honor.

In addition to the eight new firefighters, FF Scott Donahue was promoted to Captain. He was also sworn in and pinned by his wife.

The following firefighters were sworn in and pinned...

• FF/EMT Caroline Conlin
• FF/EMT Liam Frazier
• FF/EMT Patrick Dunn
• FF/Paramedic Bret Matthews
• FF/EMT Mike Murphy
• FF/Paramedic Collin Hern
• FF/Paramedic James Abbott
• FF/Paramedic Nick Novitch
• Promotion: Captain/EMT Scott Donahue

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Chief King asked ALL the current members of the fire department to come up to the front of the room to be recognized and also be sworn in. Some of these firefighters had been on the force a few years, others longer but there is no history of them ever being sworn in. Deputy Fire Chief, David O'Toole has been on the Medfield Fire Dept for 40 years.

Chief DeKing has started a new tradition of holding a swearing in/pinning ceremony for all new hires going forward. Also in attendance was Town Administrator Kristine Trierweiler, Assistant Town Administrator Brittney Franklin, Select Board member Gus Murby and other Town of Medfield officials. After the ceremonies, everyone enjoyed cake and gathering in celebration.