After serving the Philadelphia Fire Department for 35 years, Jeffrey Thompson is now leading it.
Mayor Cherelle Parker appointed Thompson, 59, as the new Philadelphia Fire Commissioner on Monday night. Thompson will take over for acting Commissioner Craig Murphy, who is retiring. Murphy took on the role in January after former Commissioner Adam Thiel became the city's managing director under Parker.
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"I believe we have found and appointed exactly who we need to lead our fire department — Jeffrey Thompson," Parker said in a news release. "Under his leadership, our medics and firefighters will continue to provide dedicated service to those who live, work and play in Philadelphia."
As fire commissioner, Thompson will oversee the department's 3,000 firefighters.
Thompson, who was raised in Germantown, joined the fire department in 1989. He has worked at various stations, including more than 20 years at the Engine 50, Ladder 12 and Battalion 8 station — where the firefighters are known as the "North Philly Cowboys."
Thompson previously has served as executive chief, adjunct instructor at the Fire Academy, special investigations officer, deputy fire commissioner and first deputy fire commissioner.
"I am honored to join the Parker administration and lead our brave medics and firefighters with unwavering dedication and a commitment to safety for all," Thompson said. "Together, we will continue to protect our city, support our communities, and uphold the proud tradition of service that defines Philadelphia's bravest."