Veteran Firefighter Retires After 20 Years With Hamden Fire Department

HAMDEN, CT — Hamden Deputy Fire Marshal Nelson Hwang recently retired from the Hamden Fire Department after more than 20 years of service, according to the Hamden Professional Firefighters Local 2687 union.

Hwang, who is now the fire marshal for the Old Saybrook Fire Department, was honored at Hamden Fire Station 3 on Friday, Nov. 28, according to officials.

“Nelson has always been a tireless advocate for the Fire Service and was always involved with the Union throughout his career,” officials wrote in a post on the Hamden Professional Firefighters Local 2687 union’s Facebook page. “Nelson worked his way up the ranks of the eboard, most recently finishing out his last few years serving as our union President. Nelson was very active at the State Level, always advocating for legislation that affected Connecticut firefighters. He offered his personal testimony with his own courageous battle with cancer, helping justify cancer coverage for firefighters in our State.

“Nelson was an outstanding firefighter and senior man on the line, but even after moving into the Fire Marshals Office, was still a great mentor and leader in our Department. Nelson wore many hats in the Office, always involved in projects to improve and keep the HFD running.”

The post noted that Hwang would always “pick up the phone.”

“If you had a question about union stuff, needed advice, or just wanted to talk, Nelson was always there for the guys,” the post reads.

During Hwang’s final meeting as union president, members unanimously voted for him to receive “President Emeritous” status, according to the post.

“Nelson leaves big shoes to fill, but we know his legacy will carry on, and he will always be here for us if we need help with anything,” the post reads.

For photos from the event honoring Hwang, visit the Hamden Professional Firefighters Local 2687 union’s Facebook page here.