NASHUA – Steven G. Galipeau was officially sworn in as the 13th chief of Nashua Fire Rescue Tuesday evening during the department’s 2015 recognition and awards night.

Galipeau, a 35-year veteran with the agency, was unanimously selected in April by the Nashua Board of Fire Commissioners to serve as the new city fire chief following nine years of leadership under Brian W. Morrissey.

“Nashua fire is a first-class organization, second to none when it comes to loyalty, dedication, professionalism and overall job performance,” Galipeau said during the fire rescue’s awards ceremony at Collings Auditorium at Daniel Webster College.

“These men and women are well prepared and trained to continue providing the highest level of service for the citizens of Nashua,” he added.

A Nashua native, Galipeau started with the department in March 1980. In 1996, he was promoted to lieutenant, captain four years later and deputy chief in 2007.

He was promoted to assistant chief in 2011.

Galipeau is also a second generation firefighter – his father Wilfred served in the department from 1958 to 1983. He stood on-stage with his family and had his badge pinned on his uniform by his mother Sheila.

While Galipeau’s swearing-in was the main attraction, first grader Tyler Hansbury from New Searles Elementary School took the spotlight after he received a citizens lifesaving award for identifying his mother’s medical emergency when she was picking him up from school.

“Several of the staff members also noticed what had happened and came over to assist. Without hesitation, Tyler stated ‘My mom has low sugars’ and the staff at the school initiated emergency medical services,” said Lt. Mark Wholey, who served as master of ceremonies for the evening. “Tyler provided needed information as quickly as possible without hesitation, ensuing his mother was cared for quickly and appropriately.”

Dianna Oakes was the other recipient of the citizens lifesaving award for her willingness to perform life-saving CPR to a neighbor in cardiac arrest.

Two Hudson Fire Explorers, Dylan Conway and Phillip Justvig, were each presented with a commissioner’s commendation for their willingness to donate their time during school vacations to assist in shoveling snow from around fire hydrants in Nashua during the winter storms.

Several other local organizations and individuals were recognized, including LKQ, RJ Finley Co., Oracle America and Ralph Jackson. Fire mechanic Nicholas Stepney and Peter Collishaw, assistant superintendent of fire alarm, were honored with fire chief commendations while Lt. Timothy Soucy was presented with a medal of merit for his leadership in a command role during an incident on Waltham Drive.

Morrissey, stepping down after 37 years, was honored with several commendations during the ceremony. Retired Lt. Richard Crowell, Judith Deslauriers and the soon-to-be retiring Deputy Chief Michael B. O’Brien Sr., were recognized as well.

“I feel confident that we have the best fire department in the state and I know that I’m leaving it in good hands,” Morrissey said.

Nashua Mayor Donnalee Lozeau referred to Morrissey as a remarkable advisor who treated her with “unusual respect.”

“I think I learned a lot from him and it will serve the city well for a long time,” said Lozeau, who graduated from high school with Galipeau. She said the fire department brings great pride to the community because of its members’ dedicated service.

Chris Garofolo can be reached at 594-6465, cgarofolo@nashuatelegraph.com or @Telegraph_Chris.

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