New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
“Dartmouth Fire District 1 regrettably announces the passing of retired Fire Chief Tom Brooks.
Tom served the district in every capacity from Fire Fighter to Chief starting in 1950 -1984 serving proudly for 34 years. Tom was an innovator in for the District in many ways becoming Chief in 1971, he merged the area of Bliss Corner to District 1 in 1972 prior to that it was known as Out of District and the town was billed to the Town.
Tom was one of those responsible for the “new” or current station on Bridge St. In the mid-70’s Tom was one of 6 members of the department to become something entirely new to the Medical and Fire Service in the State called an Emergency Medical Technician.
A visionary by any standard, while he was Chief and got approval for a 85’ Snorkel articulating boom truck, prior to that the District since 1917 relied on ground ladders, that Snorkel truck was one of very few in the area and was a frequent call for mutual aid to local Cities. Tom made sure D1 was the 1st department in the area to use 5” LDH, a significant change from the 2 ½” lines used to feed Apparatus.
Tom served along with his sons, Scott and Kevin (D) during his tenure also. Tough and fair are words frequently used to describe Chief Brooks but with a big heart, his whole life behind the scenes Tom would give of himself to many charitable organizations or just lend a helping hand to any person who needed it with little to no recognition which makes him a true hero. Chief Brooks legacy and contribution to the District continues today with state of the art equipment thanks to his foresight.
We cannot thank Chief Brooks enough for his dedication and service to the department and will make sure his legacy and contributions live on. Chief Brooks is survived by his wife Eleanor and his son Scott and his wife Jane, grandchildren Scott Jr and Stephanie Miller and his beloved great grandchildren.” -Dartmouth Fire Department.
Dartmouth Fire Department photo.
Dartmouth Fire Department photo.
Dartmouth Fire Department photo.
Dartmouth Fire Department photo.
