A changing of the guard at the top of the Springfield Fire Department.
Fire Commissioner BJ Calvi officially retired in a ceremony on Tuesday.
Mayor Dom Sarno says, “Bittersweet, but I am deeply grateful to Commissioner Calvi – ‘BJ,’ for his tremendous service to our Springfield as the ‘hands-on’ leader of our Fire Department. From running out of a black-tie event in his tuxedo to help put out a fire, to constantly advocating to ensure his fellow firefighters and department had the proper tools, equipment, and training to respond to fires and dangerous situations to save lives and save structures, to working a massive four-alarm blaze last summer at the scrap metal yard in East Springfield and containing it within a few hours, and recently fighting the 5 alarm fire in in South End, to supporting community events throughout the city, and inspiring our next generation of first responders speaking with EMS and paramedic graduates as someone who has been in their shoes – Commissioner Calvi has always demonstrated his dedication to protecting our Springfield community. I’d also like to thank BJ’s wife, Carrie for her ongoing support. Commissioner Calvi’s unwavering courage, resilience through challenges, compassion and empathy for others, and a drive for lifelong learning and advancement have helped move our fire department and city forward. Especially during COVID-19, as Commissioner Calvi and our brave and dedicated SFD were instrumental in our pandemic emergency response. Thank you, Commissioner Calvi for your bravery and commitment to our city and our Springfield Fire Department. Good health and God Bless.”
His successor was announced as Deputy Commissioner Miguel Rivera.
Mayor Sarno states, “This is a very proud moment for our city. I am proud to announce that a lifelong proud resident of Springfield, a graduate of Putnam Vocational Technical High School, a brave military veteran, and someone who has spent his career serving our Springfield Fire Department, working to keep us all safe, Miguel “Mike” Rivera, will be our next, and the city’s first Latino Springfield Fire Commissioner. Prior to coming on as our Springfield Fire Commissioner, when I tapped BJ, he had been serving as Deputy Chief of Operations over at Agawam. Now we have another Deputy Chief of Operations once again assuming the Commissioner role. I am confident that it will be a smooth and seamless transition.”
Rivera becomes Springfield's first Latino fire commissioner.