Fire Inspector Nelson Hwang has moved up to Deputy Fire Marshal, filling the vacancy created last November with the retirement of Dep. Marshal Tim Lunn. In his remarks, Chief Gary Merwede noted, "Nelson was part of the effort to inspect every multi-family dwelling in Hamden and assure homeowners, landlords, and tenants that these buildings meet the fire code for the state of Connecticut." In cases where remediation was needed, Nelson assisted property owners with plans to make the necessary modifications for compliance.
Dep. Marshal Hwang is in his fifteenth year with the department and holds State of Connecticut certifications in both code enforcement and fire investigation. He is the 9th department member to hold that position since it was created in 1984.
Coincidentally, Lieut. Richard Lennon is the 9th department member to hold the position of Training Officer, which for the last 19 years has included the duties and responsibilities of EMS Officer. In his 12th year on the job, Lieut. Lennon replaces Asst. Chief Charles Lubowicki, who moved up to the second-in-command position in May. Lieut. Lennon will be managing the training standards and the emergency medical services provided by the entire department.
As a Paramedic Field Instructor, Lieut. Lennon's duties include ensuring department readiness, competency, safety compliance, and efficiency. He holds a Master's Degree from the University of New Haven. One of his envisioned projects over the next three to five years is that of officer development.
Chief Merwede concluded his introductory remarks noting, "As of this morning, and just a bit past half way through the calendar year, the Hamden Fire Department has responded to 6,240 calls for service, placing us on track to close in on 12,000 calls for 2019."
The members of the Hamden Fire Retirees Association congratulate Dep. Marshal Hwang and Training Officer Lieut. Lennon on their appointments and wish them all the best in their new duties.
Posted 7/25/2019
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