After he was named acting New Haven fire chief in October 2016, Alston was formally sworn in as chief in December 2016.

Fire Commissioner Tom LaPonsey said Pete Holley’s support from the firefighters was the main reason behind the decision.

Fronted by an honor guard and followed by the drone of a bagpiper, Fire Academy Class 25-02, grinning and proud, split a sea of well-wishers on their way to ...