Justin White Named Harwich Deputy Fire Chief

HARWICH – Justin White was promoted to deputy fire chief in a promotion ceremony held by Chief David LeBlanc on July 1.

White was named to the post following the retirement of Deputy Fire Chief Craig Thornton. LeBlanc also announced the retirement of Lt. Scott Tyldesley.

 The promotions are the result of the retirements of Thornton and Tyldesley, said LeBlanc. 

 “As deputy chief Craig has been critical to every success we’ve had. He’s a good friend, an open ear, and a responsible voice,” said LeBlanc. “He will never have to wonder if he left Harwich better than he found it; everyone in this room can attest that he has.

 “Scott has been equally important,” the chief said. “Serving as a lieutenant, he has been a steady influence on all who worked with him. He led both the dive team and our boat operators — two passions he used to bring real value to this department.”

 “Today is a celebration of commitment, perseverance and service,” said Thornton. “We have the privilege of recognizing firefighters who have successfully completed their probationary period, formally appointing newest members of the department, and promoting officers who have demonstrated the leadership, professionalism, and dedication required to take on greater responsibility.”

 White started in the fire service at a young age, joining the Provincetown volunteer fire department when he was 14 years old, following generations of his family who served in that department. He also served as a paramedic and shift supervisor for Lower Cape Ambulance, which served Provincetown and Truro. His new badge was pinned by his brother, Jamie White.

 White was hired in Harwich in 2011, promoted to lieutenant in 2018 and captain in 2022. A year ago, White took over as the department’s training officer in addition to his duties as captain of group four, said LeBlanc.

 During the ceremony a number of other promotions were announced. Lieutenant Eric Elliot was promoted to captain, and firefighters Dan SanGiovanni and Ryan Avery were promoted to the rank of lieutenant. Firefighters Bryant Warner and Mark Pirruccio were named officers in charge. LeBlanc also welcomed firefighters Brian Sacco and Liam Woods to the department.