From Fire Chief McMorran

January 10, 2022 Events  No comments

Tomorrow night, I conclude my role as Frostburg Fire Department (FFD) Fire Chief. I am honored to have been elected by the membership and feel privileged to have served as the department’s 43rd Fire Chief. Thanks to my officers and those members who supported the mission. I could not have done it without you! I’m not walking away from the FFD, rather stepping aside. I will continue in some support roles and remain available to Fire Chief Nick Green and his staff. The FFD is fortunate to have more than competent, next-generation officers that are ready and willing to take the helm.

I was very fortunate to have great relationships with all of the surrounding automatic/mutual aid Fire Chiefs, officers and staff. Whether they responded up the hill, down the mountain or from around the corner, those departments are critical in supporting the FFD’s mission to protect life, property and the environment; strong brotherhood and I have much respect for you all!

The FFD benefited from professional relationships with many area agencies and I am grateful for their assistance. Sincere thanks to Frostburg Police Department Chief Nick Costello and the FPD Officers and PCOs; Frostburg State University Police Department Chief Cindy Smith and her FSUPD Officers; Maryland State Police Lieutenant H. B. Martz and the Troopers of Barack C; Allegany County Sheriff Craig Robertson and his Deputies; all of the investigators with the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s office; Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fire Manager, Randy Kamp, and the Maryland State Highway crews who assisted on a variety of incidents.  

Additionally, numerous folks from Allegany County including the crews from the Roads Division and the Department of Emergency Services to include all of the Directors, Chiefs, administrative staff, front-line EMS providers, and most certainly the supervisors and dispatchers at the Emergency Communications Center.

There are too many people to name at the City of Frostburg but I truly appreciate the strong partnership and assistance of City Administrator Elizabeth Stahlman; Community Development Director LJ Bennett; Permit/Code Enforcement Officer Bethany Fife, former City Engineer Chris Hovatter and his replacement, Hayden Lindsey.

The FFD revels in a collaborative union with Frostburg State University. President Ron Nowaczyk has been extremely supportive of our organization and Director of Facilities John Brewer has gone above and beyond by incorporating our recommendations and allowing us to train on campus.  

I also had the privilege to work with many local, regional and national businesses, vendors and manufacturers, who supported and supplied the FFD.

Lastly and most importantly, I was successful in my role as Fire Chief in large part due to the love and support of my wife, Shannon.

I plan to continue serving my community, so I hope to see you all soon. But in the meantime, please stay safe and thank you!

-Matt

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