On Sept. 9, Medway Fire Chief Jeffrey Lynch retired after 49 years in fire service. 

In a ceremony at the Medway Fire Department, his wife Kelly read a tribute to his career from the dispatch desk. 

“Chief Lynch began his career at the age of 16 as a volunteer at Stone Bridge Volunteer Fire Department in Tiverton, RI. In 1987, he was hired by the Portsmouth [RI] Fire Department where he served for 25 years rising through the ranks and leading the department as Fire Chief until his retirement in 2012. That same year, he took the helm of Medway Fire Department where, for the past 13 years, he has proudly served the community. Chief Lynch was instrumental in bringing advanced life support to Medway and guiding the department’s transition to a full…staff of firefighters and paramedics. 

“Beyond the fire service, Chief Lynch has been a devoted husband to his wife Kelly for 33 years; a proud father to Brittany and Bradford; and loving grandfather to Hunter, Jacob, and Dakota. His legacy continues through his son Brad, who carries on the family tradition as a firefighter/medic in Needham. 

“Chief Lynch is also known for his love of ham radio, his 30 years of youth football coaching, his devotion to the New England Patriots, and his passion for fitness. Tomorrow he and his wife begin a new adventure together with a trip to Yellowstone National Park. 

“Chief Lynch, thank you for 49 years of service, leadership, and sacrifice. Your dedication to the fire service, to your family, and to your community will never be forgotten. On behalf of the Medway Fire Department and the communities you have faithfully served, we congratulate you on your retirement and wish you many years of health and happiness. This is the final call for Fire Chief Jeffrey P. Lynch. Chief Lynch, you are clear to go home. 

“Dispatch, clear.” 

From Ladder 1, Chief Lynch said, “Thank you, Kelly. Thank you to the Town of Medway and the Medway Fire Department – it’s been a great ride. Car 1 will be back at home.” 

Chief Lynch was then escorted to his residence by several public safety vehicles. 

Soon after, Michael Fasolino was sworn in as the new Fire Chief of the Medway Fire Department, and Thomas Irwin was sworn in as Deputy Chief. 

For the full video, visit @MedwayTownHall on Facebook. 

Source: Facebook @MedwayTownHall