BCAT News

The Burlington Fire Department saw two members promoted and wished another one a happy retirement during the Board of Selectmen meeting on Monday evening. 

At the recommendation of Fire Chief Michael Patterson, Town Administrator Paul Sagarino promoted Lieutenant James Browne to Captain and Firefighter Michael McLaughlin to Lieutenant. 

Before the appointments, Patterson took time to congratulate Captain Kevin Browne, James’ older brother, on his retirement. Kevin Browne was first appointed as a Burlington Firefighter in March of 1986. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 1990 and then to Captain in 1993. He served as Shift Commander for Group Four and Group Two and also as the Department’s Training Captain. 

“Kevin has been a true Fire Service leader,” Patterson said. “His blend of knowledge, experience and ability ranks him as one of our department’s most respected officers. He has been a mentor to all that have worked with him, including myself.”

“We wish Captain Kevin Browne a happy and healthy retirement,” he added. 

Patterson said James Browne was appointed as a Burlington Firefighter in April of 1997 and was promoted to Lieutenant in 2003. He Served as the department’s Fire Prevention Lieutenant on two occasions and currently serves as the Senior Lieutenant of Group Four. As Senior Lieutenant, he also has experience working as a Shift Commander. He has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Framingham State College and an Associates Degree in Fire Service from Middlesex Community College. He is also Fire Officer I certified as well as Fire Inspector 1.

“Jim’s 17 years of experience as Lieutenant has no doubt prepared him for this promotion,” Patterson said. 

Patterson noted that James will be replacing his brother Kevin as a Shift Commander and that their other brother, Time Browne, is currently a Captain in the department. A third brother, Thomas Browne, is also the Deputy Police Chief in town. 

“I believe it is quite an accomplishment that the three Browne brothers each attained the position of Fire Captain within our department,” he said. “I recommend Lieutenant James Browne be promoted to the position of Fire Captain effective the week of January 10, 2021.”

Michael McLaughlin was appointed a Burlington Firefighter in July of 2005. He is currently assigned as an Acting Lieutenant with Group One. He earned his Master of Business Degree from Rivier University and his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts Lowell. He is also a certified Firefighter I/II. 

“Michael’s 15 years of firefighting experience has no doubt prepared him for this promotion,” Patterson said. 

Patterson also noted that in this case as well, firefighting is a family affair. 

“Michael is a second generation Burlington Firefighter. His father Paul McLaughlin served the Town of Burlington for 27 years and retired in 2002,” he noted. “I recommend Acting Lieutenant Michael McLaughlin be promoted to the position of Lieutenant effective the week of January 10, 2021.”

Members of the Board of Selectmen congratulated the two on their promotions and Kevin Browne on his retirement.