The Tolland Fire Department this week announced the promotion of Lt. Richard Walbridge to the rank of Captain.
Walbridge joined the TFD in January 2014.
Drawing on his many years of experience in the military, he quickly "established himself as a leader" and was promoted to lieutenant in July 2016, officials said.
"Since then, Rich has dedicated himself to moving TFD forward, almost single handedly spearheading efforts to revamp our pre-plan systems. His efforts have improved TFDs ability to provide faster and more efficient fire protection services by a hefty margin. He is always there to step up when something needs to get done," officials said.