HAMPTON -- Two new firefighters have joined the ranks of the Hampton Fire Department. Dean P. Tsonas was appointed on April 21, while David A. Marcotte II was appointed on April 25.

Fire Chief Chris Silver said the two were brought on to fill two existing vacancies within the department.

"These two men out performed 14 other candidates in the thorough and demanding testing and hiring process to secure their positions," said Silver.

Tsonas of Hampton Falls, graduated from Winnacunnet High School in 2002 and holds a bachelor's of arts degree from the University of New Hampshire.

He has successfully attained his Firefighter I and II training certifications, and is working on getting EMT Intermediate Level Certification.

In his free time, Tsonas said he enjoys hunting, fishing, surfing and maintaining a high level of physical fitness.

Marcotte of Manchester, spent the last 2½ years as an "on call" firefighter with the town of Auborn and as an EMT for the Pittsfield Fire Department.

A graduate of Manchester Memorial High School, Marcotte has attained Firefighter I and II training certifications, as well as EMT Basic Level.

When he's not on the job, Marcotte said he enjoys baseball, golfing and bowling.

"Both men possess outstanding character, dedication and motivation," Silver said. "We are confident that Dean and David will be a positive addition to our department, providing skilled, efficient, and quality service to the residents and visitors of the town of Hampton."