Charles Springer Named Chief at Country Hills Fire Department

Submitted by Charles Springer

The Country Hills Fire Department announced that Chief Charles Springer will relieve Chief Brian Ricks as chief of the department for 2014. 

Chief Ricks, a 12-year-plus veteran of the fire service as spent the last three years in command of the Country Hills Fire Department.  Joining as a Junior Cadet at the age of 16, he has held every line officer position in the department. 

Chief Ricks has agreed to stay on as the First Assistant Chief to Chief Springer.

“For the last three years, Chief Ricks has commanded the department through some of the most tragic events in state history of two hurricanes, one surprise blizzard, and one loss of a fellow firefighter from a sister company," incoming Chief Springer said. "His poise and leadership has been outstanding.

“Chief Ricks has been a true asset to the department and the community as a whole,”  he added.

Chief Springer is a 21-year veteran of the fire service having spent the last eight years with Country Hills Fire Department. Formerly, Chief Springer served as a federal fire chief for seven years.  

Chief Springer also currently services as a Deputy OEM Coordinator and lives in Bridgewater with his wife Kathleen.

“I have been blessed to assume command of a very healthy department, full of good firefighters,” Chief Springer said.  “With all of the challenges that we could be facing in 2014 and beyond, normal firefighting and rescue, from possible budget cuts, economic and social downturn, possible civil unrest issues, and loss and replacement of equipment, this is a position and challenge I do not take lightly—after all we are talking about the safety of my firefighters and the public as whole.”

“With above being said I want the community to know that the Country Hills Fire Department is up to the challenge," he said. "We have a group of well-trained firefighters that are always willing to serve. I encourage any member of the public who wishes to find out more or has any type of questions please don’t hesitate to contact me at the department or stop by when staff is present.”  

Chief also announced the promotions of Capt. Steven Cornella Jr. to Second Assistant Chief; Lt. Patrick Doherty to captain/EMT; and Firefighter Joseph Shreve to lieutenant /EMT. 

“These are some of the finest officers I have served with and will be an outstanding benefit to the department and the community,” Chief Springer said.