OCEAN CITY — Deputy State Fire Marshal Thomas Harr of the Lower Eastern Regional Office of the State Fire Marshal has been named the recipient of the: 2016 “James C. Robertson, Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year” award.

State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci made the presentation during a ceremony at the Maryland State Firemen’s Association annual convention in Ocean City on June 19, 2017.

Master Deputy State Fire Marshal Thomas Harr was nominated by his supervisor, Deputy Chief Joseph Flanagan. Thomas was cited for his many achievements in 2016, such as; conducting an average of 5.6 fire safety inspections and 2.25 fire investigations per month. The Pittsville resident established a 50% arson case closure rate when the national average is 19%. He is lauded for providing critical assistance in helping to close multiple additional cases being investigated by his peers as well.

This highly respected investigator has excelled in each and every aspect of his career and is a model employee for our agency.

“Master Deputy Harr exemplifies the overall desire and commitment all of our investigators embrace to ensure the safety of Maryland’s citizens”, stated Fire Marshal Geraci.

— Bruch Bouch is senior deputy state fire marshal and director of public education and media affairs for the Office of the State Fire Marshal.