Eric Bishop is sworn in as the city’s newest fire chief by Assistant City Clerk Marisa Colon in the Council Chambers of City Hall on April 21 as Fire Commissioner Dr. Jeffrey Trant (between Bishop and Colon) and Mayor Michael McCabe look on.
Reminder Publishing photo by Cliff Clark
WESTFIELD — After Eric Bishop was sworn in as the city’s newest fire chief in the Council Chamber of City Hall on April 21, he promised that he would use his tenure as an “opportunity to rebuild trust.”
“Today is about opportunity to lead, an opportunity to rebuild trust, and an opportunity to make sure our department members feel heard, valued and trusted,” Bishop said to a large audience made up of firefighters, elected officials, and his family and friends.
He said the department has a long history built on courage, sacrifice and trust.
“But today is not about honoring who we’ve been, but where we’re going,” Bishop said, choking up twice during his remarks.
“Taking this oath is both an honor and responsibility. It’s not something that I take lightly,” he said.
He then spoke about how he will lead the department.
“Simply, I will lead with integrity into the community we serve. We’re here, and you can count on us and continue to show up on your hardest days with professionalism and compassion. The next chapter requires effort on all of us. I have the full confidence in this team. Together we will move forward. We will build a better department that is stronger than ever,” he said to enthusiastic applause.
Fire Commissioner Dr. Jeffrey Trant, recognizing his fellow commissioners, Jeffrey Siegel and Dr. Brian P. Sutton, said the swearing-in ceremony was more than a formal transition.
“It is a reflection of the enduring dedication of the men and women of the Westfield Fire Department. And every day, they answer the call. Whether that means rushing to the scene of an emergency, educating our residents about fire safety or standing together in support of one another,” Trant said.
He also thanked those who attended the ceremony.
“Your presence here is a testament to the respect and appreciation we hold for this noble profession and for those who dedicate themselves to its service,” Trant said.
Mayor Michael McCabe took the floor.
“It’s no secret that Eric and I have known one another for a very long time and have worked together for more than two decades. And I know we’re getting older, so I get it … right?” McCabe said, prompting a response from Bishop.
“And I got the gray hair,” Bishop said.
“And I’m proud to be a small part of his journey,” McCabe said, also recognizing Bishop’s wife, Erica.
Before reading a formal proclamation of Bishop’s appointment as chief, McCabe said he looks forward to working with Bishop and his team for the rest of his tenure and wished nothing but the very best of luck in “leading the brave men and women of the city of Westfield’s Fire Department.”
Bishop is replacing former Chief Patrick Egloff, who retired on April 17 after serving 30 years in the department, including seven years as chief.
