Maynard Community Recognizes Chief Anthony Stowers Upon His Retirement

The Maynard (MA) Fire Department is proud to recognize Chief Anthony Stowers upon his retirement from 11 years of serving as Maynard’s Fire Chief and 35 years in the fire service. Chief Stowers, whose retirement became official on February 17, 2023, was recognized by colleagues, town and elected officials and friends in a ceremony held at Sanctuary in Maynard.

Chief Stowers said he was most proud of having helped to get a new fire station built last year, and also of work the town has supported to ensure that Maynard firefighters are as well equipped as they deserve.

In addition to building a new fire station, all of the department’s frontline equipment has been replaced, all firefighters have two sets of turnout gear, and the department’s policies and procedures were updated to improve safety.

“When the town hired me, they took a chance on somebody who was from another state, who was unknown, and who had less experience than some of those who interviewed,” Chief Stowers said. “I will always be grateful for that support, and the support the Selectmen continued to show over the years.”

Town Administrator Greg Johnson thanked Chief Stowers for his service, and also thanked his family and wife Barbara, whom he presented with flowers.

“Public safety spouses have to pay a price for their spouses’selflessness, and that takes a lot of selflessness from the family too,” said Johnson. “It is your sacrifices that helped make him so successful. Thank you.”

Selectman David Gavin, who was on the Board of Selectmen when Chief Stowers was hired, said the chief was persistent in working toward the goals that he had for the department.

“I watched you for over a decade carefully put together the support that was needed, the ideas that were necessary, and the stick-to-itiveness to get it done and that fire house is a great testament to you, the work you have done, and how much you care,” said state Rep. Kate Hogan as she presented Chief Stowers with a citation from the House of Representatives.

“The Chief led the charge and I’m so proud of what he has done for our community and what he has done for the Fire Department,” said Selectman Gavin.

Shrewsbury Fire Chief Jim Vuono, president of the Fire Chiefs Association of Massachusetts, presented Chief Stowers with a lifetime membership to the association.

“You’ve really provided the town of Maynard and the region with a level of services that, in my opinion, is unmatched,” said Town Administrator Johnson.

Captain Angela Lawless has been selected to serve as the town’s next fire chief, though her official appointment remains pending. Captain Lawless attended the event’s opening, but was on-duty and had to respond with other firefighters to a call for service as the ceremony was ongoing. - Submitted by Robert Mills