SAUGUS — Flashing blue lights and groups of public safety personnel lined the street, saluting as Engine 3 made its way through. Inside sat Lt. Damian Drella, who served with the Saugus Fire Department since 1987, on his way home from the hospital.

Drella is currently battling occupational cancer, and to honor him, the Saugus Fire Department picked him up from the hospital in his engine to give him a last ride.

The members of the Saugus Fire Department were joined by the Melrose Fire Department, the North Reading Fire Department, the Ipswich Fire Department, Drella’s sons representing the Mendon Fire Department, local Emergency Services personnel, and more.

Standing alongside them was the Saugus Police Department, whose cruisers took up half the street, showing an overwhelming amount of support for their fellow first responder.

The gathered friends and family waited through the rain outside Drella’s house to ensure he received the welcome home he deserved.

At the entrance of the street, a ladder truck was raised holding the United States flag, matching the one flying outside Drella’s home.

When Drella stepped out of the fire engine, he was greeted with a steady stream of hugs as he made his way around the circle. Despite the sadness in the air, it was overpowered by the clear love that everyone had for their friend and colleague.

Despite his illness, Drella made his way to his porch and looked out at everyone, tapping his chest before stepping inside with his sons — a quiet display of the strength he has built over his years of service.

Throughout his firefighting career, Drella did more than just respond to emergencies. Many firefighters go above and beyond to protect the public, but Drella took his job a step further with the help of a camera.

Drella used his camera to tell the stories of his department and more, snapping photos at scenes whether he was working or not. He’d show up and take his photos, posting them to show the day-to-day lives of his fellow firefighters.

Through this work, Drella was honored in 2025 with the Thomas R. Linskey Award of Merit, the highest commendation the Saugus Fire Department can bestow.

As he received the award, it was said that Drella rose above the call of duty and that his photography and documentation of scenes were a “rare and invaluable gift.”