THOMASTON — "Being the fire chief, sometimes you've got to make some hard decisions," said Thomaston Fire Chief David Hanna. "That requires weighing different perspectives, using your experience, judging personalities, ensuring the timing is right for the organization, and defining the needs of the department before moving forward." 

However, according to Hanna, the decision being recognized through a pinning ceremony at the Feb. 9, 2026 Select Board meeting wasn't one of those hard decisions.

"This was definitely a very easy decision to make," he said. 

Paramedic Ryan Morton has been promoted to Lieutenant at Thomaston Fire/EMS. Morton has been with Thomaston EMS since 2023, and recently was honored with the Phoenix Award, which is presented to first responders who take life-saving actions resulting in patient survival. In addition to his work as a responder, Morton has led the town’s EMS personnel in monthly training sessions focused on chest trauma, and he developed this training after reviewing department call statistics and identifying chest trauma as an area of need.

The role of lieutenant is not just a rank, said Hanna. It's about leadership. It's not only about remaining calm through the course of the day, but also remaining calm when things are getting hectic on the fire ground. It's about showing up prepared; remaining steady and constant; and willing to take responsibility, not just for your own actions, but for the actions of the people you oversee. It's about earning trust, not demanding it. 

Morton has consistently demonstrated all of those characteristics, according to Hanna. 

A leader leads by example, said Hanna. He takes ownership of his own work. He supports his fellow members. And he never hesitates to step up when the department or the community needs him. He understands that leadership in the fire and EMS world isn't about giving orders but it's about setting the tone. It's about mentoring other people. And it's about making sure the people around you succeed. It's about professionalism, accountability and service. It's about fostering a culture of inclusion, a strong work ethic, and making everyone around you better. 

"Ryan reflects all of these qualities," said Hanna. "And it's not just about past performance. It's about the confidence that I, and the department have in your future leadership skills. I have no doubt that you will represent the department with pride, integrity, compassion, just like you always have.

"On behalf of Thomaston Fire and EMS, congratulations. We are proud of you, and we're looking forward to what you'll bring to this role as you put your own personality on this position and you help the organization move forward."

Select Board Chair Chris Rector thanked the members of the department who attended the ceremony in support of Morton. 

"I think that's terrific, and I really appreciate the camaraderie among the group here, and the family members who are here as well," said Rector. "It's so important that we support this important team."

Vice Chair Kimberly Matthews echoed the sentiment.

"It's always nice when we have anything with EMS/Fire and so many of you guys come out to support each other," she said. "It just shows how much of a team you guys really are."