Thirty Years in Turnout Gear: Dracut Fire Department Recognizes Careers of Deputy Chief Thomas Mackey and Lt. Mark Armstrong

DRACUT — Chief Michael Cunha and the Dracut Fire Department recognize the 30-year careers of Deputy Chief Thomas Mackey and Lt. Mark Armstrong, who celebrate their third decade with the department today.

Deputy Mackey and Lt. Armstrong joined the Dracut Fire Department on the same day, May 2, 1995.

Deputy Chief Mackey was promoted to Lieutenant in 2007, to Captain in 2013, and to Deputy Chief in 2014. Lt. Armstrong was promoted to Lieutenant in 2014.

Both men are known around the firehouse for mentoring other firefighters and leading by example.

Deputy Mackey is in charge of the department’s Fire Prevention Division, and Lt. Armstrong works on Engine 3, assigned to the Nashua Road fire station.

Deputy Mackey received Certificates of Commendation in 2003, 2007, 2009 and 2012, and received a Unit Citation in 2023. The commendations were for responses to serious motor vehicle accidents, life-threatening injuries, and incidents in which Deputy Mackey helped saved victims in cardiac arrest using an AED.

Lt. Armstrong received Certificates of Commendation in 2006, 2007, and 2016. He received a Unit Citation in 2010, and a Rescue Medal in 2021. The commendations were for responses to serious motor vehicle crashes, life-threatening injuries and rescuing individuals from fires. The rescue medal was awarded to Lt. Armstrong for a successful rescue of a fellow firefighter.

“Thirty years of showing up, day after day, ready to protect, serve, lead, and support this community and this department is exceptional,” said Chief Michael Cunha. “Over the years, both Deputy Mackey and Lt. Armstrong have responded to countless calls, faced many challenges, and helped mold this department into what it is today. They’ve led by example, mentored generations of firefighters, and earned the respect of everyone around them. What makes this even more remarkable is that they’re not just being recognized for what they’ve done — they’re still doing it. They’re still showing up, still leading, still making a difference.”

“On behalf of the department, the Town, and everyone whose lives you’ve touched through your service — thank you. Congratulations on 30 incredible years, and here’s to the road still ahead.”