New Asst. Fire Chief Justin McCarthy, as an adult, and back in the day.
New Haven’s new assistant fire chief is upholding a family tradition.
The Board of Fire Commissioners approved the appointment of the new assistant chief of administration, Justin McCarthy, at a meeting on Wednesday.
Firefighting runs through McCarthy’s family. It’s in his DNA.
McCarthy’s father Kevin was assistant chief of Westport’s fire department. His uncle Stan is still a Bridgeport firefighter.
Colleen Delaney with her husband Justin McCarthy Wednesday at his swearing in.
His father-in-law Kevin Delaney retired as a New Haven fire battalion chief. His wife’s grandfather, Thomas Delaney, became a firefighter in 1914. Thomas lost his life three decades later when, as a captain assigned to Engine 12 on Crown Street, he responded to a blaze at the Owl Shop on College Street.
“You don’t do this job unless you feel for other people,” said McCarthy, who was among the firefighters in 2009 who saved the life of a suicidal man hanging out a window at the old Duncan Hotel. “You’re there to help.”
In his new role, McCarthy will be responsible for budgeting, union, and personnel matters.
That puts him on the other side of the table where he sat for years as a member of the union’s executive board.
“I’m excited,” he said of serving as assistant chief. “This has been my goal since I’ve been able to walk.”
McCarthy, who’s 35, is in his 13th year in the department. He also earned a law degree from Quinnipiac.
Chief John Alston Jr. said McCarthy won the position from a field of 15 candidates. He called McCarthy a “rising star.”
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Alston turned to McCarthy to oversee logistical support for firefighters, procuring disinfecting and personal protective equipment and working with other city departments on purchase. “It was a great trial run” for the job he begins now, Alston said.