Clayton announces appointment of Assistant Fire Chief

February 12, 2008

The Clayton Fire Department announced today the appointment of Paul V. Mercurio III as the new Assistant Chief / Fire Marshal. Assistant Chief Mercurio will replace John Laventure, who retired last month with over twenty-five years of service to Clayton. Assistant Chief Mercurio was chosen following an extensive selection process. “Assistant Chief Mercurio has an extensive background and experience as both a Fire Marshal and Fire Officer and will be a great asset to the department and community. We are glad he is joining our team,” said Fire Chief Mark Thorp.

Assistant Chief Mercurio comes to the Clayton Fire Department from West County EMS & Fire Protection District in St. Louis County. Assistant Chief Mercurio has over twenty-four years of fire service including the last
nine years as Fire Marshal. Assistant Chief Mercurio’s qualifications include a B.S. Degree in Fire Service Management from Maryville University, certification by the State of Missouri as a Fire Investigator, Fire Inspector,
Fire Service Instructor, Emergency Vehicle Operator II, Fire Officer 1 & 2 and licensed paramedic. Additionally, Assistant Chief Mercurio is a member of numerous fire service related associations.