EAST PROVIDENCE — Eleven members of the East Providence Fire Department, including new Chief Glenn Quick, were formally promoted during a ceremony presided over by Mayor Bob DaSilva and held at City Hall Monday night, Dec. 2.

Family, friends and EPFD staff looked on as a new fire chief, two battalion chiefs, three captains, four lieutenants and the city’s first rescue lieutenant took the fire department oath and were officially sworn into their new rank by Mayor DaSilva.

“All of you possess the bravery and commitment that it takes to be a member of the fire service,” Mayor Dasilva said. “Each day when you walk into your firehouse you do it not knowing what your tour will bring.

“The sacrifice you make is not only willing to give your life to save someone else, sacrifice is also spending time away from your loved ones, from your family on holidays, missing your children’s first steps or first words, not being able to attend your child’s soccer games or school events,” the mayor added. “Being a firefighter is not an 8 to 4 job, it’s a 24/7 job."

Chief Quick told the newly promoted staff: “You’re the leaders of tomorrow. Never stop training. Never stop learning your craft. Your knowledge is going to protect you.”

In addition to Chief Quick’s ascension, the following members of the EPFD were also promoted: Michael O’Melia – Battalion Chief; Theodore H. Hopkins III – Battalion Chief; Scott Weber – Captain; Joseph A. daSilva – Captain; Douglas Drainville – Captain; Joseph Donato IV – Lieutenant; Adam L. Christina –Lieutenant; Daniel J. Pion – Lieutenant; Joseph W. Burns – Lieutenant; Joseph D. Horn – Rescue Lieutenant

“These are the individuals right here who have the boots on the grounds, who are riding the rigs and working calls on the streets,” Chief Quick added. “They save lives every day.”