New Chief, Deputy Chief Sworn In For Wakefield Fire Department

WAKEFIELD, MA — Thomas Purcell is the new chief of the Wakefield Fire Department. Purcell has served in the department for almost 30 years.

He was appointed deputy chief in 2020 and temporary acting chief in September.

He was sworn in Dec. 19 in a ceremony at the Americal Civic Center.

Purcell was credentialed as a Massachusetts Chief Fire Officer in 2018 through the Massachusetts Fire Commission, attended the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program, and holds a master’s degree in public administration.

He is only the eighth chief of Wakefield’s fire department since 1899.

On the same day, John Walsh was appointed deputy fire chief. He has served the department for 20 years, most recently as temporary deputy chief.

Walsh is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He is also a certified Advanced Fire Investigator and holds a master’s degree in public administration.

More information from the Town of Wakefield is available by clicking here.