It is my great honor to announce the Chief Marshal for Bristol’s 241st Fourth of July Celebration.

Born in Providence, and since 1987 he has proudly called Bristol home, becoming a dedicated and active member of this community, we all cherish.
 

He met his wife in 1989 during an emergency call at Colt State Park, she in law enforcement, he an EMT. That moment sparked a lifelong partnership. Married for 34 years, they have built a wonderful family together, raising a son and daughter, and proud grandparents to a granddaughter and grandson.

 

His educational journey began at Coventry High School and continued at the University of Rhode Island. Earlier in his life of service, he spent 16 years as a volunteer firefighter and Rescue Lieutenant with the Tiogue Fire District and later served as President of that district. He has also contributed to the field of emergency medical services as an EMS Instructor Coordinator and State Examiner. Dedicating nearly four decades to emergency medical services, his leadership has made a lasting impact across our region. He has also dedicated his life to public service on a State and National level. 
 

Faith and service have always been guiding principles for him. He is a parishioner of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and a member of Knights of Columbus Bristol Council 379. 

His commitment to community service extends far beyond his profession. He is a member and served as President of the Bristol County Lions Club. He also previously chaired the Bristol Substance Abuse Prevention Task Force, helping guide important efforts to support and protect members of our community.

In addition, he continues to give back through his service on the Board of Governors at Bradley Hospital, the Bravo Bradley Committee, and as a member of Bristol County Concerned Citizens. He has also served as President of the Private Ambulance Association of Rhode Island and currently leads Amaral’s Memorial Golf League.
 

When he finds time away from his many commitments, he enjoys spending time with family, golfing, playing billiards, bicycling, recreational shooting, and continuing his lifelong love of music. In fact, he once marched as a saxophone player in the Washington Independent Band during the Bicentennial.

This year’s Chief Marshal truly embodies the spirit of service, dedication, and community pride that defines the celebration. He has devoted his life protecting and caring for the community at all hours, under all conditions. His life reflects the very values that the Bristol Fourth of July Celebration has stood for over two centuries. His life has been defined by dedication, to family, to community, and to service. Those values reflect the very spirit of the Fourth of July in Bristol.
 

Today, we recognize not only his professional achievements as the principal owner and President of Paramedic Systems, Inc. but, his character, his generosity, and his unwavering commitment to others. 

 

Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in congratulating and welcoming the Chief Marshal of Bristol’s 241st Fourth of July Celebration, Thomas M. Carroll.