Quincy Fire Department Welcomes First Female Firefighter Into Its Ranks

During a historic swearing-in ceremony on Friday, February 28, Cathryn Draicchio became the first female firefighter in the Quincy Fire Department's 136-year history. She joined 26 of her fellow firefighters who officially signed the department's registry on Friday.

Draicchio of Braintree served three years in the Braintree Fire Department and one year in the Massachusetts Fire Services. She is also a U.S. Army Reserve 84th Training Command staff officer.

According to 2022 statistics from Data USA, women like Draicchio make up only 4.2% of firefighters in the United States.

"Honestly, it's just a big deal to be following in my grandfather's footsteps and serving the city of Quincy," she said in an interview with the Patriot Ledger. "I'm pretty excited about that."

Her grandfather, William Draicchio, was the well-known "dancing cop" who served on the Quincy police force for 38 years before retiring in 1989. He was honored posthumously in 2002 when the intersection of Washington Street and Southern Artery — where he routinely directed traffic and entertained school children using the crosswalk there with his dance moves — was renamed Draicchio Square.

Draicchio emphasized the importance of determination and belief in oneself in achieving goals. "Anyone can do the job as long as they're determined, committed, and a good team player," she said.

Quincy Mayor Thomas Koch, who attended the event, noted that the Quincy Fire Department's staffing levels are at a 50-year high. This increase in fire personnel translates to more prompt response times during emergencies.

Christopher Gorman, one of the 27 individuals sworn in during the ceremony, said the recruitment process for Quincy firefighters is thorough. It involves completing a civil service test, submitting extensive personal documentation, and undergoing intense physical exams and psychological evaluations.