Huntington resident Bethany Thomas, the city’s newest firefighter/paramedic, looks over paperwork with Westfield Fire Chief Patrick Egloff Aug. 7 following Thomas’ appointment. (Photo by Hope E. Tremblay)
WESTFIELD – Bethany Thomas was hired as the city’s newest firefighter/paramedic Wednesday.
Her appointment was unanimously approved by the Westfield Fire Commission.
Thomas, of Huntington, is a paramedic who will begin her new position Aug. 19. She will attend the state firefighting academy in November.
Thomas said she has worked in emergency service for eight years and has been a paramedic four years. She wanted to further her skills and become a firefighter.
“I have a lot of friends who are firefighters and I thought I would try it and I love it,” she said.
Thomas’ parents Jeff and Kathy Thomas said they are proud of their daughter and were not surprised when she chose to serve her community.
“When Bethany was a child, she would rescue things – birds, bunnies – she is a rescuer at heart,” said Jeff Thomas.
Kathy Thomas said her daughter is following in her family members’ footsteps.
“This runs in the family,” she said. “My father was in the military and the police and fire departments.”
Fire Chief Patrick Egloff said Thomas will be sworn-in at her convenience.
