Thomas J. Barry Jr. Formally Accepts Appointment as Norwood Fire Chief-November 3, 1978

New Chief Wins Enthusiastic Support from Firefighters Union Following Cordial Meeting

Following a unanimous vote by the Board of Selectmen naming him to the $29,000-a-year post, Thomas J. Barry Jr. formally accepted the appointment as chief of the Norwood Fire Department yesterday.

Barry—who previously served as fire chief in El Cerrito, California—had deferred his immediate acceptance following Wednesday night’s interview to consult with his wife and meet with local union leadership. That crucial morning meeting, lasting an hour, successfully bridged the gap between the incoming administration and rank-and-file personnel.

Union President Thomas J.P. Collins described the session as “very cordial” and expressed immense enthusiasm for the incoming leadership: “I think it’s going to be a very lasting relationship. He’s everything we expect of a fire chief—of a firefighter’s fire chief.” Alluding to the strained, bitter nine-month relationship between the union and civilian acting chief Robert T. Capeless Jr., Collins added: “The man knows what he’s talking about. He’s going to bring morale back and put the department back on its feet.”

Chief Barry’s Transition Timeline & Actions

Initial Station Visit

Following his meeting with union executives, Chief Barry spent the majority of the workday touring the Norwood fire station, engaging directly in discussions with rank-and-file firefighters and outgoing acting chief Robert T. Capeless Jr.

Official Start Date

Chief Barry is scheduled to officially assume command and take up permanent residence in Norwood in early December, following family relocation preparations.

Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger

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