ACTON — Chief Robert Hart is pleased to announce Anita Arnum has been chosen as the next Deputy Chief for the Acton Fire Department.
Arnum, who is currently a captain, will start in her new role on Sunday, Nov. 8. She will replace former Deputy Chief Robert Vanderhoof, who retired in March after 42 years of service. She is both the first woman to hold this rank and the highest ranking woman in the history of the department.
“Congratulations to Deputy Chief Arnum, who has proved to be an exceptional leader and asset for the Acton Fire Department,” Chief Hart said. “She has been a dedicated firefighter serving the Acton community for over 30 years and will continue to serve the Town well in her new role.”
Arnum began her career with the Acton Fire Department as a full-timefirefighter in 1989. She was promoted to the rank of lieutenant in January 2012 and named captain in March 2017. She also serves as a paramedic for the department.
In her role as Deputy Chief, Arnum will be responsible for assisting the chief with fire operations, fire prevention, training and administrative duties. She will also serve as the Town of Acton’s Emergency Management Director.
A ceremony in honor of Arnum’s promotion is expected to be held in the near future. Information about when and where it will be held will be announced when available.
###
