BEDFORD, NH - Bedford Fire Chief Frank Fraitzl was sworn in at a ceremony held Monday at the Bedford Fire Department.

Town Manager Rick Sawyer welcomed the large crowd of firefighters from across the state, as well as friends and family who came to witness the swearing in.

Today’s date was chosen because it marked the 41st anniversary of Fraitzl being sworn in as a call firefighter for Bedford. He has lived in Bedford for almost his entire life.

Chief Fraitzl has served as the fire Chief of Milford, Litchfield, and most recently New Boston. Chief Scott Hunter recently retired leaving the position open.

After being sworn in by Firefighter Rick Todd, he was pinned with his badge by his wife.

Town councilors unanimously approved Fraitzl’s hiring as the ninth fire chief in the department’s 103-year history, who will oversee a department with 50 people.

©Jeffrey Hastings www.frameofmindphoto.com/news