Clarence A. Cunha, a 33-year veteran of the department, sworn-in as 24th Chief of the Providence Fire Department
PROVIDENCE, RI– Mayor Angel Taveras and Commissioner Steven M. Paré joined with
other dignitaries and members of the Providence Fire Department at a ceremony this
afternoon as Chief Clarence A. Cunha was promoted to Chief of the Providence Fire
Department. Chief Cunha is a graduate of the 37th Providence Fire Department
Training Academy and has served on the department for 33 years.
«It is with great pride that I welcome Chief Clarence A. Cunha to the top position
in the Providence Fire Department,» said Mayor Angel Taveras. «During his 33 years
as a member of the Providence Fire Department, Chief Cunha has proven himself to be
a skilled firefighter and a steadfast leader. I am confident that he will continue
to work to protect the people of Providence and serve our city with distinction.»
«Chief Cunha has an impeccable record of service and accomplishment and is devoted
to his family, friends, career, and the City of Providence. He is a leader who has
earned the respect of the men and women of the Providence Fire Department,» said
Public Safety Commissioner Steven M. Paré. «Chief Cunha is patient, dedicated, and
puts his heart and soul into everything he does.»
Chief Cunha was appointed to the Providence Fire Department on September 22, 1980.
The Chief began his career assigned to Engine Company 3 and then served 9 years in
the Special Hazards Unit.
On December 19, 1991, Chief Cunha was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in charge
of Engine Company 12 at the Admiral Street Station. On December 1, 1999, Chief
Cunha was promoted to the rank of Captain and ran Engine Company 2 and then later
Engine Company 10 at the Broad Street Station. On April 26, 2013, Chief Cunha was
promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief. He later served as Deputy Assistant Chief
and was appointed to Acting Chief of the Fire Department on September 16, 2013.
On December 18, 2013, Chief Cunha was appointed the 24th Chief of Department.
Established in 1854, the Providence Fire Department is the second oldest
continuously operating professional Fire Department in the country. The 160 year
anniversary of the department is in March of this year.
As a Providence Firefighter for 33 years, Chief Cunha is the recipient of numerous
awards, commendations, and citations for heroic and meritorious actions. He is
certified in haz mat, fire operations, ICS, NIMS, fire safety officer, incident
safety officer, and is an EMT-Cardiac.
Chief Cunha, married to Karyl for 34 years, is the proud father of Alyson, Rene, and
Matthew, and grandfather to Gianni and Scarlett.