In a room full of residents of Bloomfield, family members and supporters, the Bloomfield Fire District was proud to host a Firefighters Promotions Ceremony, on Monday, September 27 at the 1021 Blue Hill Avenue location in Bloomfield. The hosts were Fire Chief Willie Jones, Commissioners Ariel Marzouca-Jaunai and Donna Banks, Finance Director Errol Bartley (Emcee) and Clerk/Treasurer Barbara Taylor.

Five First Responder Firefighters promoted are: Robert Shuler to Deputy Chief, Vincent Jaunai from Lieutenant to Captain, Kevin Harrell to Acting Lieutenant, , Martin Serignese to Acting Captain and Ted McGhie to Lieutenant.

“I think these promotions are good,” This is going to be a change of space and new life within the department. Moving forward, we have some great people, innovative ideas, and tremendous motivation! 3-years, Captain before.”

Fire Chief Jones and the Commissioners welcomed new Blue Hills Fire District members Sam Benn (Award Recipient), Dion Chavis, Tirrell Cox, Da’Jaun Ellison, Orlin Melendez, Peter Noble, Juelz Thompson, Tyren Watt, and Raphael Lawrence (Award Recipient). First Responder Fire District Volunteers Ian Linton and Raphael Lawrence received an award for their service.
Citizen awards and recognition were given to Shelden Brown and Jada Facey who have dedicated their time and talent as volunteers for the Fire District.

Reverend Judy Simpson, who has served as a volunteer and Fire Chaplain received special recognition. An emotional moment came when Commissioner Donna Banks received a bouquet of flowers for her tireless work and service to the district. “I did not expect this affirmation, but I am grateful,” said Banks. “I am just overwhelmed with emotion and pride to see these men get promoted. They are our heroes who are often unsung. Today, we stop and give them their flowers of recognition”

Mayor Suzette DeBeatham-Brown gave special tributes to those promoted as well as for the newly inducted.

All who were promoted, and the new members of the Fire District formally took their oath of office to faithfully execute and uphold the duties as a firefighter for the Blue Hills Fire District.

“We are so proud of everyone who was promoted,” said Ariel Marzouca-Jaunai. We wanted to take the time to highlight the men who are willing to sacrifice their lives so that our families can be safe if in the event there is a fire. This promotional ceremony and celebration are coming together for Bloomfield to always remember, recognize and appreciate our brave First Responders.”

Not photographed, is Acting Lieutenant Kevin Harrell.

Deputy Chief Robert Shuler
Captain Vincent Jaunai
Acting Captain Martin Serignese
Lieutenant Ted McGhie

BLUE HILLS FIRE DEPARTMENT CHAPLAIN

Reverend Judy Simpson has been the Chaplain for over 20 Years. She represents various faiths participating in departmental and regional ceremonies. She assists in making death notifications and provides moral support and comfort to Blue Hills Fire Department members and residents.