Two exemplary members of the Marblehead Fire Department were promoted to the rank of fire captain during a ceremony at Abbot Hall Wednesday night.

Before a crowd of fellow firefighters, family and friends, Gregg McLaughlin and Jeff Martin were sworn in at Wednesday's meeting of the Board of Selectmen.

Prior to being sworn in, Fire Chief Jason Gilliland told those in attendance why he felt both men were well-prepared to become the department's newest captains.

Martin was the first to step in front of the Spirit of '76 and take the oath.

"Jeff is the type of firefighter that most chiefs can only hope for. He has a can-do attitude, intense firefighter training above and beyond what is required at the station, he is constantly reviewing the equipment on the trucks and he keeps himself in great shape," Gilliland said. "Jeff's finest quality is his willingness to offer assistance without being asked."

Then, it was McLaughlin's turn.

"When I called him into my office to promote Gregg to captain and have him sign the paperwork he looked at me with a straight face and said 'chief, how many more years you got until you retire?'" Gilliland said, drawing a laugh from the crowd. "So he's ambitious, I'll give him that."

When the ceremony was complete, both men were given a standing ovation.