Pawtucket Promotes Firefighter, Adds New Member to Dept.

(from left) Pawtucket Fire Lt. Scott A. Johnson and new Firefighter William M. Hughes after being sworn in to their respective duties at City Hall ceremony on Wednesday, Sept. 10.

In a City Hall ceremony held on Wednesday, Pawtucket promoted one firefighter while adding another member to the Fire Department.

Antonio J. Pires, director of administration and public safety, who administered the oaths of service to the two firefighters, noted that the following day would be the 13th anniversary of the tragic events of 9/11.

"September 11th serves as a vivid reminder of the dangers and commitment and sacrifices firefighters have to make every day," Pires said.

Fire Chief William Sisson said the department will be sending its honor guard, which will represent all similar honor guards in the state, to Wednesday's statewide commemoration on the grounds of the State House to honor the victims of the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. Police Chief Paul King will also be attending to represent the city.

Scott A. Johnson, 43, of Warwick, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant. A 1989 graduate of Shea High School, he has served as fire service instructor, live burn instructor, fire officer and incident safety officer and achieved EMT Cardiac designation. His badge was pinned by his wife, Jessica, with their 10-year-old daughter, Paige.

William M. Hughes, 22, of North Providence, was sworn in as the newest member of the department. A 2009 graduate of North Providence High School, Hughes has earned an EMT-B license. Hughes, who is single, had his badge pinned by his mother, Carlene Hughes.

Also attending the ceremony were Mayor Donald R. Grebien and numerous current and retired city firefighters as well as friends and relatives of the two firefighters being sworn in to their new duties. Opening and closing prayers were conducted by the Rev. Charles Galligan, fire chaplain.

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