William Swann has been named Director Chief of the Nashville Fire Department, making him the first African-American to serve in the role.
WTVF reports that Swann, who has spent 22 years with the department, was permanently elevated from the position of interim chief he held since the retirement of former Chief Ricky White in November 2017.
“My goal is to continue to make sure the personnel of the NFD are a group of well-trained, progressive and respected first responders,” Swann said. “We are committed to promoting inclusion, equality and respect, while creating safer communities through prevention, preparedness and effective emergency response.”
Swann followed five years of military service, including operations in the Gulf War, by becoming a Nashville firefighter before moving up the ranks to Training Academy instructor, director of the Office of Emergency Management and then Deputy Fire Director.
"I have had an opportunity to work closely with Chief Swann over the last six months and he has proven he’s the right person for the job," Nashville Mayor David Briley said. "I am grateful for his work as interim (chief) and for his 22 years of service. I know he will be a strong leader for Metro Nashville Fire Department, and I congratulate him on this appointment."
