Dearborn Heights Mayor Dan Paletko joins members of the Dearborn Heights Fire Department following the Feb. 8 swearing in of the deparrment’s new officials. Shown are Chief Andrew Gurka (left), Deputy Chief Russ McNamee, Paletko, Fire Marshal Dave Brogan, and Fire Inspector Sean Payne.
HEIGHTS — The Fire Department announced the promotions of three firefighters following a Feb. 8 swearing-in ceremony by City Clerk Walt Prusiewicz at City Hall.
The promotions filled the positions of deputy chief, fire marshal and fire inspector that were left vacant because of retirements in late 2011.
The promotions were:
Russell A. McNamee Jr., promoted to deputy fire chief: McNamee, a 24-year veteran of the department, has served since October 2011 as acting deputy chief. Throughout his career, he has held the positions of firefighter, pump operator, suppression lieutenant and fire suppression captain. McNamee also serves as deputy commander of the Michigan Disaster Medical Assistance Team, and team leader of the Southeast Michigan Incident Management Team.
David Brogan, promoted to fire marshal: Brogan is a 24-year veteran of the fire suppression/emergency medical service profession, with 20 years service at the Dearborn Heights Fire Department. He has held the positions of firefighter, pump operator, lieutenant and most recently captain prior to his promotion to fire marshal.
Sean Payne, promoted to fire inspector: Payne is a 13-year veteran of the department. Prior to his promotion to fire inspector, he served as a firefighter since joining the department in 1999.
“We are pleased to see these three firefighters advancing into their new positions” Mayor Dan Paletko said. “I am confident their experience and dedication will make them valuable assets to the department in their new roles, and will help the Dearborn Heights Fire Department continue its tradition of providing top-notch service to our community.”