Norton Deputy Fire Chief Announces Retirement

NORTON — After a 47-year career with the Norton Fire Department, Deputy Chief Benton Keene III is set to retire on Sept. 10, according to a release from Norton Fire Chief Shawn Simmons.

Keene’s career in fire services began when he joined the Norton Fire Department in 1975.

According to the release, he was one of the first certified EMTs in the department after his certification in 1977.

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Keene eventually rose to the rank of lieutenant in 1990 before becoming a captain in 2006.

Over the years Keene has served as the Incident Commander during several major incidents in Norton, although the release did not specify which ones.

Most recently, he was promoted to Deputy Chief in 2019.

Keene said he plans to spend his retirement with his wife of 41 years along with his four daughters and 15 grandchildren.

The Fire Department will host a retirement open house celebration for the deputy chief on Thursday, Aug. 25 between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the 70 East Main St. station.

Light food and refreshments will be served.

“On behalf of the Norton Fire Department, we would like to thank Deputy Chief Keene for his dedicated service to the Norton community and wish him the very best in his retirement,” Chief Simmons said.

“Throughout the past 47 years, he has been a staple within this department, serving as a leader and mentor to many. His expertise and experiences will be greatly missed.”