Robert Morris, Sr., a veteran of the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) and instructor for FDIC International, has been tapped as the permanent fire chief for the city of Stamford, Connecticut.
Mayor Caroline Simmons announced the appointment on Monday, which needs to be approved by the city’s Board of Representatives, the Stamford Advocate reported.
Morris served as the assistant chief of volunteer services since 2014, overseeing all five of the city’s volunteer fire companies, and has been serving as interim chief since October 2023, taking over from retiring chief Trevor Roach.
“I am pleased to appoint Chief Rex Morris to the role of Fire Chief for the Stamford Fire Department,” said Mayor Caroline Simmons in a release provided by her department. “With a career in the fire service that spans over 50 years, I am confident that Chief Morris has the qualifications, expertise, and professionalism to lead the Stamford Fire Department and I look forward to working with him in this permanent capacity.”
Morris served on FDNY’s storied Rescue 1 and responded to the terror attacks of 9/11 on New York City. He retired as captain of Rescue 1 after a 40-year career, and has taught fire rescue classes ranging from basic firefighting to technical rescue and is certified in aircraft rescue firefighting. He is a longtime instructor of forcible entry at FDIC International.
“I am proud and honored to be placed in command of such a great organization,” said Morris in the release. “Stamford is where I was born, and I started my fire department career here. I want to thank the officers and members of the Stamford Fire Department for their support during my interim time and especially to Mayor Simmons for her support and confidence in me.”
The CT Examiner noted that Morris, a Stamford native, started as a volunteer with the Belltown Fire Department. In November, he made an appearance before city officials to urge an increase in the number of deputy chiefs.
