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"Obviously, I am very honored, and I never thought I would get this far. But I am just trying to do the best that I can," Wuennemann said in brief comments as well-wishers came forward to shake his hand and give him a hug after the ceremony Wednesday.
He replaced Timothy Shaw, who retired last month to become chief of the Easton Police Department.
Wuenneman joins Assistant Chief of Police James Matheny under Police Chief Jon Fontneau, who called Wuennemann "a rising star."
"You are an accomplished, respected leader — that is evident by the crowd that is gathered here today," Fontneau said. "You are a rising star in the police department."
The city's public safety Director Ted Jankowski praised Wuennemann and the police department.
"(Wuennemann) has played a key role in helping the city of Stamford become one of the safest cities in the northeast and in the nation," Jankowski said. "Being chosen for this position is a great honor but with this honor comes a great responsibility both to the members of the Stamford Police Department and to the residents of the city of Stamford.
"I'm confident you will rise to the challenge and meet this responsibility. There is no doubt Tom will continue to make Stamford a safe place to live while proudly being a leader in the best police department in the nation."
Mayor David Martin said Wuennemann's choice of a career as a police officer shows he is ready to take on heavy responsibilities.
"It tells me you are willing to stand up and stand between the threats of the world and a disaster that can strike me and my community."
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