2025 FDNY Medal Day

FDNY MEDAL DAY Honoring Members of the Fire Department, City of New York

June 4, 2025

MEDAL DAY PUBLICATION

F.D.

DEPUTY COMMISSIONER PUBLIC INFORMATION (Acting) Amanda Farinacci

DIGITAL & MEDIA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

N.Y.

Joseph D. Malvasio

MANAGING EDITOR Kristin Eng

MEDAL DESK

MEDAL BOARD

Captain Jack Cassidy Lieutenant Dennis McCutchen Lieutenant Daniel Walsh Paramedic Natalie Apollon

Robert S. Tucker

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Fire Commissioner

Ana Cortes Thomas Ittycheria

John M. Esposito

COPY EDITOR Lauren LaLonde

Chief of Department

FIRE

Kevin F. Woods

Chief of Fire Operations

WRITERS

EMS

Michael Fields

Chief of EMS Operations

Publication of this FDNY Medal Day Book was made possible by the FDNY Foundation. The FDNY gratefully acknowledges the generosity of the Board of Directors and staff.

The FDNY Foundation Matthew J. DiLiberto, Chairman • Jean O’Shea, Executive Director The FDNY also thanks the Honorary Fire Officers Association for their generous contribution to create this publication.

FDNY

EMT Gillian Axtens Deputy Chief Michael Barvels Battalion Chief Daniel Barvels Clare Bourke Captain Patrick Burns Captain Kirk T. Candan Battalion Chief John J. Cassidy Fire Marshal Billy Chen Captain Michael Doda Firefighter Joseph Dunnigan Lieutenant Nick Graziano Nicholas L. Guss Lieutenant Steve Interdonati Lieutenant Benedict Jacobellis Captain Alexander Khalef Assistant Chief Fire Marshal Michael J. Kavanagh Captain Randy Li Captain Ralph L. Longo Battalion Chief Stephen Marsar Assistant Chief Paul Miano Firefighter Thomas Morrison Battalion Chief Anthony Pascocello Deputy Chief Natalia Polunin Lieutenant Joshua Raeben Captain Brendan Ryan EMT Frank Webers Captain Robert A. Wilson

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER EMT Kimberly Socci

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS BY

Bravely Serving Since 1865

Randy Barron EMT Kyle Cook

Front cover: February 23, 2024, second-alarm Box 1647: Firefighter Matthew Nolan picks up a panic-stricken victim at the window. A total of six individual medals were awarded for rescues at this incident. Three people were rescued by members deploying the life-saving rope, and four residents were rescued from the floors above the fire.

Back cover: July 7, 2024: Scene at Beach 96th Street, Far Rockaway, where multiple injured swimmers were pushed onto the jetty. Recipients of the Yadira Arroyo Medal, Station 47 EMTs Andrew Ochtera and Saverio Bosco, work with NYC lifeguards to treat and remove the victims to safety. (Photo by FDNY Command Tactical Unit)

Photos provided by medal recipients unless otherwise noted

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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SPECIAL THANKS

Chief Fire Marshal Daniel Flynn and Assistant Chief Fire Marshal Michael J. Kavanagh and the Bureau of Fire Investigation Matthew T. Talty Deputy General Counsel Rich Ain Bureau of Legal Affairs

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June 4, 2025

Dear Friends: It gives me great pleasure to welcome everyone to the New York City Fire Department (FDNY)’s annual Medal Day celebration.

The five boroughs rise on the foundation of dedicated public servants who share a sense of responsibility to protect and defend their neighborhoods. We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to the women and men of the FDNY, who work tirelessly to ensure that their fellow New Yorkers feel secure in their communities. Public safety is the prerequisite to prosperity, and for 160 years, the FDNY has been steadfastly committed to guaranteeing the safety of residents and visitors in the Big Apple. The members of New York’s Bravest and Best embody the ideals of courage and selflessness that define our great city, and the annual Medal Day recognizes the invaluable contributions and acts of valor carried out by our firefighters, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), and paramedics throughout the year. As you gather to commemorate these courageous individuals, I am proud to applaud the entire FDNY family for its unflinching devotion and efforts to forge a brighter, healthier, and safer future for all.

On behalf of the City of New York, congratulations to this year’s honorees. I extend my best wishes for a memorable ceremony and continued success.

Sincerely,

Eric Adams Mayor Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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FIRE COMMISSIONER

Robert S. Tucker

A

s an all-hazards public safety agency, the FDNY is accustomed to responding to all kinds of emergencies, in all kinds of scenarios. There is much that can go wrong: Weather can be an impediment, technology can malfunction and circumstances can change rapidly, making dangerous situations even more dangerous. But this is what the FDNY does best: relying on foundational skills that are practiced time and again, maintaining calm while things are going wrong and completing every single mission assigned. This book is a celebration of all of that, as we recognize the truly remarkable rescues our members accomplished and highlight the occasions our firefighters, EMTs and paramedics were measured, quick-thinking and brave. We commend all the members who did this exemplary work; they embody what it means to be part of the FDNY, and they deserve our praise and honor on FDNY Medal Day. Our highest award for a meritorious act for members of Fire Operations is the Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci, Jr. Medal, awarded to Firefighter Michael D. Kotzo of Ladder Company 28. Kotzo was part of a team of firefighters who responded to a fire in a six-story Manhattan building, with reports of people trapped at the top-floor windows. Kotzo is one of six members who will receive a medal for their role in the fire, where firefighters performing three separate roof rescues saved three people, and additional members operating on the floors above the fire rescued four people overcome by smoke. In an incredibly dangerous and highly technical operation, Kotzo was deliberate and courageous, displaying teamwork and leadership—and in doing so, had a tremendously successful outcome.

Our highest award for a meritorious act for members of EMS Operations is the Christopher J. Prescott Medal, awarded to EMT Amber Black and EMT Mitchell Tarnapolsky. The pair were working on the Coney Island boardwalk last July when they observed two swimmers in distress at about 6 p.m. Moving quickly to help, they made a plan for EMT Tarnapolsky, a seasoned lifeguard, to swim out to the swimmers in need. He reached the swimmers and coordinated efforts with EMT Black and another EMT unit to get the swimmers to the shoreline safely. Thanks to their quick thinking, their teamwork and their bravery, they were able to save the lives of two youngsters.

These are just some of the stories you’ll read about in these pages. Our members are dedicated to their training and consistently prove they will do whatever is necessary to save lives. This is the gift of the FDNY: members who just won’t quit, who will pull out all the stops to do their jobs—and then some. They show courage, compassion and commitment. For this, we are grateful, and we thank you for your service. Congratulations on these amazing awards! This work is truly remarkable.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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CHIEF OF DEPARTMENT

John M. Esposito

E

very day, in every corner of this City, FDNY members answer calls for help, running toward danger to save life and property. They perform acts of bravery with courage and compassion, and they often happen without fanfare or recognition. Today, we honor the Bravest and the Best.

The firefighters, EMTs, paramedics and officers recognized in this book represent the very best of the FDNY. Their stories are reminders of the dedication to duty that defines this department. Whether it is a rescue during a fire, on the water or during a complex operation under extreme pressure, you’ll find that these medals are awarded to members who went far beyond what was expected and acted in ways that require quick thinking, selflessness and extraordinary courage in dangerous and unpredictable situations.

I am positive if you ask those recognized in this book about their acts of bravery, they will say, “It’s part of the job.”

In the FDNY, we place an emphasis on teamwork and training. We teach all members that being a first responder means being ready to act at a moment’s notice, without hesitation and without regard for oneself in unusual situations.

Six firefighters in total will receive medals for a two-alarm fire in February 2024, where three people were rescued by firefighters performing a life-saving rope rescue. One of those members was Probationary Firefighter Jason Lopez, recipient of the BC Thomas J. Neary Bronx/Harlem Firefighter Medal. Lopez was first on the roof during this job. Multiple people were trapped at windows above a fire, and Firefighter Lopez, although a proby, knew a roof rope rescue was the only means of saving them.

He and his fellow members initiated the rare life-saving rope evolution. Executed as a team, each individual member involved in the life-saving rope rescue performed their evolutions perfectly and successfully rescued three people trapped above the fire. This operation is an excellent example of when the elite training of FDNY members, even those just starting their career, combined to save lives.

It is just one example of the extraordinary dedication and skill reflected in this year’s medal recipients. I am proud of the work that our men and women perform each day to keep this City safe. Congratulations on a job well done.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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FIRST DEPUTY COMMISSIONER

Mark Guerra

DEPUTY COMMISSIONERS

Lizette Christoff

Management & Budget

Kwame Cooper

Barbara Dannenberg

Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer

Don Nguyen

General Counsel & Legal Affairs

Human Capital

Derek Poppe External Affairs

Kat Thomson

Nafeesah Noonan

Support Services

Workforce Development

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Public Information (Acting)

Support Operations

ASSOCIATE COMMISSIONERS

Jeremy Brooks

Amanda Farinacci

ASSISTANT COMMISSIONERS

James H. Harding Jr.

Barry Greenspan

Rebecca Mason

Jason Shelly

Assistant Deputy Commissioner External Partnerships

Fire Prevention

Procurement & Fiscal Services

External Affairs

Dominique Joseph Family Assistance

Hilit Tolani

Equal Employment Opportunity

Corina Leske

Deputy General Counsel

Carlos Velez

Investigations & Trials

Michele J. Maglione Youth Workforce & Pipeline Programs

Kevin Williams

Candidate Investigation

CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICERS

Dr. David J. Prezant

Chief Medical Officer Special Advisor to the Fire Commissioner for Health Policy

Dr. Glenn H. Asaeda Chief Medical Director Office of Medical Affairs

Dr. Karen Hurwitz

Chief Medical Officer Bureau of Health Services

Dr. Douglas Isaacs

Dr. Bradley Kaufman Dr. Shenecia Beecher

Deputy Chief Medical Director Office of Medical Affairs

Deputy Chief Medical Director Office of Medical Affairs

Deputy Chief Medical Officer Bureau of Health Services

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Dr. Jayson Park

Deputy Chief Medical Officer Clinical Director, WTC Health Program

CHIEF OFFICERS

Michael Fields

Kevin F. Woods

Chief of Fire Operations

John Sarrocco Assistant Chief of Fire Operations

Thomas Currao

Chief of EMS Operations

Kevin Brennan Assistant Chief Fire Operations

James Canty Chief of Safety

Chief of Fire Prevention

Cesar Escobar Assistant Chief EMS Operations

Michael Meyers Chief of Training

CHIEF FIRE MARSHALS

Paul Miano

Assistant Chief EMS Operations

Daniel Flynn

Malcolm Moore

Chief Fire Marshal

Chief of Special Operations Command

Michael Kavanagh Assistant Chief Fire Marshal

CHAPLAINS Monsignor Marc Filacchione Reverend Pamela Holmes Reverend V. Simpson Turner Jr.

Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello Father Joseph Hoffman

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Father Christopher Keenan, OFM Rabbi Joseph Potasnik

BOROUGH COMMANDERS

Joseph Duggan

Deputy Assistant Chief Brooklyn

Joseph Ferrante

Brian Gorman

Assistant Chief Queens

Assistant Chief Manhattan

David Simms

Deputy Assistant Chief Staten Island

Michael Woods

Deputy Assistant Chief Bronx

DEPUTY ASSISTANT CHIEFS

Tonya Boyd EMS Academy

Grace Cacciola

Joseph Pataky

EMS Chief of City Central Operations

Joseph Schiralli Fire Operations

Kathleen Knuth

EMS Operations

EMS Chief of City South Operations

Christopher Ritchie Chief of Fire Academy

Ian Swords

EMS Chief of City North Operations

Chief of Planning

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Fire Operations

Stacy Scanlon

Fredrick Villani

EMS Operations

Michael Massucci

Denise Werner

Emergency Medical Dispatch

DIVISION COMMANDERS

Kevin Murphy Fire Division 1

Joseph Carlsen Fire Division 3

Russell Regan Fire Division 11

Joseph Cavaretta Uniformed Personnel

James Donlevy Fire Division 6

Daniel Browne

Uniformed Personnel

Fire Division 7

Mark A. Cuccurullo

Fire Division 13

Thomas S. Tanzosh

William McCormack

Fire Division 14

Joseph Downey Rescue Operations

9

Fire Division 8

James Smithwick

Joseph Loftus

Fire Division 15

Hazmat Operations (Acting)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

Joseph Harris

Francis Simpson Marine Operations

DIVISION CHIEFS

Nicholas Aiello EMS Division 1

John Nevins EMS Division 7

Richard Bracken

Natalia Polunin

Laitrice Edwards

EMS Division 2

Nancy Gilligan

EMS Division 3

Luis Basso

EMS Division 4

EMS Division 5

EMS Division 6

Martin Braun

Robert Hannafey

Christopher J. Bilz Hospital Liaison Unit

EMS Special Operations

Cheryl Middleton

EMS Division 8

EMS Division 9

EMS Safety Command

Bureau of Health Services

Dinorah Claudio

Kahlia Graham

John Eyzaguirre

Charles Morgan

Farooq Muhammad

Joseph Sanders

Evan Suchecki

Emergency Medical Dispatch PSAC 1

Patrick Flynn

Emergency Medical Dispatch PSAC 2

Bureau of Training EMS Academy

EMS FDOC

Bureau of Training EMS Academy

Fleet Services

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Mark Bonilla

EMS Operations Mental Health Response Unit

Marie Villani

EMS Operations

INDEX OF MEDALS AND RECIPIENTS

Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci, Jr. Medal & NYS Honorary Fire Chiefs Association Medal FF Michael D. Kotzo, L-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Chief James Scullion Medal EMT Ethan Y. Lu, Sta. 13; FF John M. Perez (for incident while EMT, Sta.13) . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Christopher J. Prescott Medal EMT Amber M. Black, EMT Mitchell Tarnapolsky, Sta. 43 . . . . . 15

Dr. J.W. Goldenkranz Medal FF James A. Soutar III, L-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Brooklyn Citizens Medal & FF Louis Valentino Award Lt. Edward P. Velten (for incident while FF, L-157) . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Uniformed Fire Officers Association Medal Lt. Patrick W. Donaghy, L-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Yadira Arroyo Medal EMT Saverio J. Bosco Jr., EMT Andrew J. Ochtera, Sta. 47 . . . 17

William and Gertrude Friedberg Medal FF Marc A. Sylvers, Sq-252 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Hugh Bonner Medal & Honor Legion Medal FF Matthew E. Nolan, Sq-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

American Legion Fire Dept. Post 930/ Mark M. Wohlfeld Memorial Medal FF Robert Velazquez, L-170 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

BC Thomas J. Neary Bronx/Harlem Firefighter Medal FF Jason J. Lopez, L-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Arthur J. Laufer Memorial Medal FF Kevin T. Purdy, L-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Emily Trevor/Mary B. Warren Medal Battalion Chief Robert S. Wind (for incident while Capt., L-125) . . . 20

Emerald Society Pipes and Drums Medal Lt. Michael P. McPartland, L-157 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Thomas E. Crimmins Medal FF David Nkrumah, L-47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Company Officers Association Medal Lieutenant Raed M. Khan (for incident while FF, L-129) . . . . . . . 48

Thomas A. Kenny Memorial Medal FF Daniel Centonze, R-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Edith B. Goldman Medal FF Joseph A. Tenteromano, L-172 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Walter Scott Medal FF Jeffrey L. Mirabal, L-54 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Lieutenant Kirby McElhearn Medal EMT Jeremy J. Quinones, PSAC 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

John H. Prentice Medal FF Christopher G. Carlin, L-56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Chief Joseph B. Martin Medal FF Bryan Anderson, E-247 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Henry D. Brookman Medal Battalion Chief Ryan C. Brito (for incident while Capt., L-34) . . . 25

Police Honor Legion Medal FF Timothy J. Smith, L-105 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Chief Ulyses Grant Leadership Medal EMS Lt. Justin H. Kinney, SOC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Firefighter David J. DeFranco Medal Lt. Scott J. Hamelburg (for incident while FF, L-173) . . . . . . . . . 53

Hispanic Society/23rd Street Fire Memorial Medal of Valor FF Bryan Garcia, L-163 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Lieutenant James E. Zahn/ Lieutenant Peter L. Troiano Memorial Medal Lt. Richard C. Cannon, L-148 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Michael J. Delehanty Medal FF Rafael J. Germosen, L-51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia Medal Lt. Kevin M. Kirrane, L-154 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Deputy Commissioner Christine R. Godek Medal FM David Leibowitz, BFI SIU; FM Matthew L. Rocco, BFI CWN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

William F. Conran Medal FF Michael J. Gannone, L-174 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Probationary Firefighter Thomas A. Wylie Medal FF Thomas J. Canzoneri, L-134 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Chief John J. McElligott Medal & FFs Fitzpatrick and Frisby Award Lt. Brian P. Currid, L-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Shelly Rothman Memorial Medal Capt. George M. Polito, L-169 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Thomas F. Dougherty Medal FF John Hlavacek, R-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Jack Pintchik Medal EMT Giovanni V. Gotay, EMT Maxwell S. Senger, Sta. 18 . . . . . 58

Bella Stiefel Medal FF Kevin C. Routledge, L-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Captain Alison Russo North Star Medal Lt. Kathleen E. Wood, Sta. 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Tracy Allen-Lee Medal Paramedic Amanda J. Czaja, Paramedic Philip D. Dacey, Sta. 14 . . . 34

Dr. Sheldon Jacobson Award Paramedic Franklin Kupferberg, Sta. 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Vincent J. Kane Medal FF Marc J. Douglas, L-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Lt. James Curran/New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation Medal, Engine Company 295 Lt. Eric P. Schaming, FF Ibrahim M. Mangane, FF Angel M. Cotto Jr., L-152; FF Richard P. Kenney Jr., E-299; FF John Kuper, L-130 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Pulaski Association Medal FF Ysnaldo Perez, E-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Commissioner Edward Thompson Medal FF Joseph E. Pansini, L-127 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Firefighter Thomas R. Elsasser Memorial Medal, Squad Company 288 Lt. Joshua L. Wiener, (Rescue Bn), FF Patrick J. Conway, FF John H. McCoy, FF Dane R. Martin, FF Lawrence Richard, FF Anthony Rivas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Columbia Association Medal FF Duane L. Davis, R-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Susan Wagner Medal FF Thomas C. Heedles, L-148 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

World Trade Center Memorial Medal, Ladder Company 18 Capt. Bryan M. Scimeme, D-1 (now Lt.), FF Kevin C. Alore Jr., FF Michael L. Morano, FF Justin C. Rodriguez, FF Dominic J. Torre, FF Nicholas P. Willoughby . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Steuben Association Medal Captain Kurtis Niemczyk (for incident while Lt., B-58) . . . . . . . . 40

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TOP FIRE OPERATIONS MEDAL RECIPIENTS

S

ince 1869, the FDNY has awarded annually a medal for the highest act of bravery by a firefighter or fire officer. In 2020, this top honor was renamed in honor of Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci Jr., the highest ranking uniformed member of the Department killed on September 11, 2001. Chief Ganci made the supreme sacrifice while leading the rescue efforts in response to the terrorists attacks at the World Trade Center.

1869—Lieutenant Minthorne D. Tompkins (L-1) Captain Benjamin A. Gicquel (E-9) 1870—Lieutenant Charles L. Kelly (E-9) 1871—Firefighter Ambrose L. Austin (E-15) 1872—Lieutenant Thomas Henry (L-6) Firefighter Thomas Hutchinson (L-1) 1873—Battalion Chief William H. Nash (Bn-7) Firefighter Alfred Conner (L-10) Lieutenant Henry Schuck (E-34) 1874—Captain William Mitchell (E-10) 1875—Lieutenant James Horn (E-11) 1876—Firefighter Joseph McGowan (E-6) 1877—Firefighter Thomas J. Dougherty (L-1) 1878—Captain Daniel J. Meagher (L-3) 1879—Firefighter Paul Bauer (L-4) 1880—Firefighter John Levins (L-2) 1881—Firefighter Michael Connerford (E-12) 1882—Firefighter John L. Rooney (L-10) 1883—Firefighter William B. Kirchner (E-11) 1884—Firefighter John Binns (E-32) 1885—Captain Peter H. Short (L-l) 1886—Firefighter Michael Brady (E-34) 1887—Lieutenant Samuel Banta (L-10) 1888—Lieutenant William Quirk (E-22) 1889—Firefighter William Reilly (L-12) 1890—Captain Thomas J. Ahern (E-5) 1891—Firefighter Patrick F. Lucas (E-30) 1892—Firefighter Patrick H. Aspell (L-4) 1893—Firefighter John Walker (L-6) 1894—Firefighter Denis Ryer (L-15) 1895—Firefighter William H. Behler (E-35) 1896—Firefighter Martin M. Coleman (L-3) 1898—Firefighter James Pearl (L-7) 1899—Firefighter John Hughes (1) (L-14) 1900—Firefighter William Clark (L-14) 1901—Firefighter Thomas J. McArthur (E-29) 1902—Firefighter Richard Nitsch (E-35) 1903—Firefighter Charles F. Douth (L-3) 1904—Firefighter James R. McAvoy (L-4) 1905—Firefighter Michael J. Stevens (L-4) 1906—Firefighter Cassimer C. Wodzicki (E-17) 1907—Firefighter Michael Nicklaus (L-4) 1908—Firefighter John T. Oakley (L-11) 1909—Battalion Chief George L. Ross (Bn-7) 1910—Firefighter John R. Harcke (L-12) Firefighter Frank C. Clarke (L-24) 1911—Firefighter Richard J. Condon (2) (E-12) 1912—Firefighter Robert J. Boyle (L-10) 1913—Engineer of Steamer Seneca Larke (E-20) 1914—Firefighter John F. Mooney (1) (L-4) 1915—Captain Thomas W. Smith (E-2) 1916—Firefighter James T. Daniels (L-26) 1917—Firefighter John Walsh (1) (L-1) 1918—Firefighter Patrick R. O’Connor (L-14) 1919—Lieutenant Francis Blessing (R-1) 1920—Firefighter Timothy F. O’Leary Jr. (E-15) 1921—Firefighter Frank J. Costello (L-12) 1922—Firefighter Jacob F. Ferber (E-239) 1923—Captain Edwin A.A. Quinn (E-14)

1924—Hon. Medical Off. Harry M. Archer, MD 1925—Captain Thomas J. O’Toole (E-27) 1926—Firefighter William G.R. Mitchell (E-18) 1927—Firefighter Michael McInerney (L-12) 1928—Captain James A. Walsh (1) (E-234) 1929—Firefighter George W. Reilly (L-19) 1930—Firefighter Edward V. Conroy (L-l) 1931—Captain Albert B. Carlson (E-66) 1932—Firefighter Vincent J. Hyde (R-3) 1933—Captain Cornell M. Garety (R-l) 1934—Firefighter Rudolph F. Musil (L-12) 1935—Firefighter George J. Wolken (E-60) 1936—Firefighter Joseph E. Smith (2) (E-211) 1937—Firefighter James P. Nevin (E-201) 1938—Firefighter Charles G. Roscher (L-1) 1939—Firefighter Daniel J. Sullivan (L-3) 1940—Firefighter Charles A. Merz (L-168) 1941—Firefighter Thomas F. Brennan (L-111) 1942—Captain John W. Heaney (Hdq.) 1943—Firefighter John Colgan (L-2) 1944—Firefighter Harvey W. Crook (R-3) 1945—Captain George H. Winter (L-3) 1946—Firefighter Arthur L. Speyer (L-24) 1947—Firefighter Anthony J. Riccardi (L-26) 1948—Captain Patrick T. Green (R-1) 1949—Firefighter James S. Norton (L-163) 1950—Firefighter Wilbur J. O’Donnell (L-111) 1951—Firefighter Victor F. Rossi (L-120) 1952—Lieutenant John F. McGlynn (L-10) 1953—Firefighter Angelo Michelini (E-97) 1954—Deputy Chief John T. Oakley (2) (Hdq.) 1955—Firefighter Bernard F. Curran (E-92) 1956—Firefighter Michael J. O’Driscoll (L-28) 1957—Firefighter William Von Diezelski (L-4) 1958—Firefighter Nicholas Sharko (L-11) 1959—Captain Arthur J. O’Connor (Sq-4) 1960—Firefighter William V. Russo (E-254) 1961—Firefighter Joseph G. Peragine (L-14) 1962—Firefighter Joseph E. Almon (L-35) 1963—Firefighter Lawrence F. Duenas (E-59) 1964—Firefighter David Crowley (L-14) 1965—Firefighter James E. Bowler (R-2) 1966—Firefighter Robert E. Farrell (L-31) 1967—Firefighter Thomas D. Ferraiuolo (L-28) 1968—Firefighter Gene P. Dowling (L-25) 1969—Firefighter James N. Tempro (E-217) 1970—Firefighter Charles Varner (L-55) 1971—Lieutenant Richard R. Hamilton (R-2) 1972—Firefighter Steven C. DeRosa (L-102) 1973—Firefighter Raymond G. McCann (L-40) 1974—Firefighter Gilbert J. Murtha (L-108) 1975—Firefighter Thomas J. Neary (L-31) 1976—Firefighter Martin McGovern (L-114) 1977—Captain Frederick W. Gallagher (R-2) 1978—Firefighter James H. Battillo (L-152) 1979—Firefighter John J. Pritchard (R-2) 1980—Lieutenant Thomas J. Neary (L-28) 1981—Lieutenant Howard R. Kennedy (L-154) 1982—Firefighter Joseph H. Dirks (L-103)

1983—Firefighter Kenneth L. Connelly (L-111) 1984—Firefighter Robert Merkel (L-42) 1985—Firefighter James A. Sollami (E-62) 1986—Captain James F. McDonnell (L-42) 1987—Lieutenant William F. Maloney (L-34) 1988—Firefighter John J. McDonnell (L-28) 1989—Captain Richard Jacquin (L-59) 1990—Lieutenant Gerard M. Murtha (R-3) 1991—Firefighter William E. Jutt (L-22) 1992—Firefighter Michael M. Dugan (L-43) 1993—Firefighter Albert J. Gonzalez Jr. (L-18) 1994—Lieutenant John M. Fox (Sq-1) 1995—Firefighter Gregory J. Smith Jr. (L-108) 1996—Firefighter Gerard J. Triglia (L-132) 1997—Firefighter John K. Duddy (L-28) 1998—Firefighter Stan J. Sussina (R-1) 1999—Captain John J. Pritchard (E-255) 2000—Firefighter Stephen P. Fenley (L-78) 2001—Firefighter John F. South (L-44) 2003—Battalion Chief James Marketti (Bn-48) 2004—Firefighter James F. Mills (L-176) 2005—Firefighter Victor J. Rosa Jr. (L-138) 2006—Captain Christopher J. Joyce (E-318) 2007—Firefighter James T. Byrne (L-121) 2008—Lieutenant James F. Congema (Bn-19) 2009—Firefighter Anthony M. Romano (L-142) 2010—Firefighter Michael A. Czech Jr. (L-142) 2011—Firefighter Peter G. Demontreux (L-132) 2012—Firefighter Kevin J. Hogan (L-114) 2013—Lieutenant Thomas G. Woods (L-154) 2014—Lieutenant Robert E. Lee (L-47) 2015—Captain William J. Grant (E-168) 2016—Lieutenant Brian J. Colleluori (L-174) 2017—Firefighter James P. Lee Jr. (R-1) 2018—Lieutenant Michael J. Conboy (R-3) 2019—­Lieutenant Patrick T. Mataraza III (L-56) 2020—­Firefighter John H. McCoy (Sq-288) 2021—­Firefighter Abraham G. Miller (L-23) 2022—Firefighter Darren J. Harsch (Sq-270) 2023—Firefighter Artur Podgorski (L-108) 2024—­Lieutenant Mark H. Russo (Rescue Bn)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci Jr.

TOP FIRE OPERATIONS MEDAL RECIPIENT

Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci, Jr. Medal &

NYS Honorary Fire Chiefs Association Medal

Firefighter Michael D. Kotzo Ladder Company 28

February 23, 2024, 1417 hours, Box 22-1647, Manhattan Appointed to the FDNY on September 14, 2003. Previously assigned to Engine Company 69. Attended Luzerne County Community College. Recipient of three Unit Citations (2005, 2015 and 2023), a PreHospital Save (2011) and a Service Rating B (2017). Resides in Pleasantville, New York, with wife Wendy and children Kamryn and Gavin.

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t 1414 hours on February 23, 2024, Ladder Company 28 responded first due to a reported fire on the top floor of an isolated six-story multiple dwelling. While responding, the Manhattan Communications Office notified that they were “loading up the box” due to the quality and quantity of phone calls, and that people were on the fire escape.

On approach, Ladder Company 28 observed heavy smoke emanating from the building and confirmed people on the fire escape. Upon arrival, Firefighter Michael Kotzo (L28, chauffeur) immediately set the aerial ladder to the fire building’s roof. As the outside team scaled the aerial, Lieutenant Robert Perrone (L-28) advised Battalion 16 that the fire was on the third floor, blowtorching out the open apartment door into the hallway and cutting off access to the floors above.

Hearing reports of people trapped at the top-floor windows, FF Kotzo climbed the aerial to the roof, anticipating the necessity of a life-saving rope rescue. On the roof, Firefighter Jason Lopez (L-28, roof) confirmed the report that a civilian had jumped and was being attended to in the alley.

He then looked over the exposure 4 parapet and saw multiple people at the two top-floor windows, with heavy smoke pushing over their heads, screaming for help. Concerned the others might jump, FF Kotzo and FF Lopez conferred and determined an immediate rope rescue was necessary.

After transmitting their intention to command, FF Lopez attached the snap hook to his harness and mounted the parapet. FF Kotzo took four turns around his harness hook and directed FF Lopez to dismount the parapet. While Firefighter Christopher Dawkins (L-28, OV) relayed commands, FF Kotzo

FF Michael Kotzo is lowered on a life-saving rope to rescue the second of three victims from the top-floor windows at this lithium-ion battery fire, February 23, 2024. (Photo courtesy of NYPD Aviation)

lowered FF Lopez to the window to effect the rescue, then lowered him and the panic-stricken civilian safely to the ground.

FF Kotzo then turned his attention to another civilian hanging out of the adjacent top-floor window. With no other rope yet on the roof, FF Kotzo determined that the victim's only chance of survival was to reuse the rope a second time. While attempting to calm the victim at the window, FF Kotzo retracted the rope and transmitted to Battalion 16 that a second rope rescue was being conducted.

FF Kotzo understood the inherent risk of using the same rope a second time. He attached the snap hook to his personal harness, handed the rope to Firefighter Thomas Morrison (Sq-41) to lower him, then bravely dismounted the parapet.

With FF Dawkins as guide, FF Kotzo shouted commands until he was level with the window. The victim was extremely panicked and had trouble complying with instructions, so FF Kotzo took hold of the victim’s arms and wrapped them around his own neck, instructing the victim to do the same with his legs. FF Kotzo securely grabbed hold of the victim, and they began to descend. The victim had trouble holding on, and eventually his legs and arms hung down, forcing FF Kotzo to support the weight of the victim with only his arms as he was lowered to the ground.

Firefighter Michael Kotzo was instrumental in two of the three life-saving rope rescues conducted at this incident. He acted within the highest traditions of the Fire Department of the City of New York and is deserving of the Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci, Jr. Medal and NYS Honorary Fire Chiefs Association Medal.—TM

Members who operated at Manhattan Box 22-1647, February 23, 2024. From left to right: FF Michael Ninivaggi (E-80), FF Royce Allman-Changkit (E-234), FF Christopher Dawkins (L-26), Lt. Damian LaPene (E-69), FF Timothy Tenney (E-69), FF Jason Lopez (L-28), FF Michael Kotzo (L-28), FF Michael Sassi (E-69), Lt. Robert Perrone (L-28), FF Stephen Hayes (L-28), FF Sebastian Espinoza (E-313), BC Daniel Schug (B-16) and FF Timothy Gavigan (L-28).

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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TOP EMS OPERATIONS MEDAL RECIPIENTS

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amed in honor of EMT Christopher Prescott, the first EMS member to make the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty in 1994, the Prescott Medal is the highest honor bestowed upon a member of EMS Operations.

2012—Lieutenant Derrick C. Simpkins (Station 58 ) EMT James S. Hyams (Station 58)

1997—EMT Paul M. DePalo (Battalion 46) 1998—Paramedic Jeffrey W. Hinton (Battalion 16)

2013—EMT Marilyn L. Arroyo (Station 46) EMT Jimmy M. Guailacela (Station 46)

1999—Paramedic Daniel Fink (Battalion 35)

2014—EMT Brendon Hernandez (Station 16)

2000—EMT Daniel E. Stewart (posthumously) EMT David Karic (Battalion 20) 2001—EMT Gamaliel Bonilla (Battalion 31)

2015—EMT Shawn Alexander (Station 58) EMT Khadijah Hall (Station 58)

2003—EMT John Manning (Battalion 43)

2016—Lieutenant Michael C. Daddona (Station 50)

2004—EMT Ronald G. Grubert (EMS Academy) EMT David T. Weissman (Station 50)

2017—EMT Ryan J. Gref (Station 4) 2018—EMT Taylor T. Perez (Station 8)

2005—EMT Ronald J. Johnson (Station 8) 2019—Paramedic Jacqueline J. Benel (Station 14) 2006—EMT Stephen A. Smith (Station 54) 2020—Paramedic Niall C. O'Shaughnessy (Station 4) Paramedic Joshua S. Rodriguez (Station 4)

2007—Paramedic Abraham B. Englard (Station 10) Paramedic Juan L. Henriguez (Station 10)

2021—EMT Gary Hui (Station 59) EMT Samuel R. Wright (Station 59)

2008—EMT Shawn P. Healy (Station 19) EMT Daniel J. Rohde (Station 19) 2009—Dr. Dario Gonzalez (Medical Director, Div 1 & 2) Lieutenant Louis Cook (Haz-Tac) Paramedic Marco A. Girao (Station 8) Paramedic Juan Henriguez (Station 8)

2022—Lieutenant Paul A. Ardizzone (Haz-Tac) Paramedic Shewain Q. George (Station 32) Paramedic Hugh Smith III (Station 39) 2023—Lieutenant Shlomo E. Winkler (Station 45) Paramedic Kira L. Watkins (Station 45)

2010—Paramedic Margagret Vega (Station 20) 2024—EMT Shawn M. Griffin (Station 45) EMT Emmanuel F. Titus (Station 45)

2011—EMT Kyle R. Barbaria (Station 26) EMT Edward Rodriguez (Station 20)

EMT Christopher J. Prescott

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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TOP EMS OPERATIONS MEDAL RECIPIENTS

Christopher J. Prescott Medal July 6, 2024, 1800 hours, CAD 4095, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on June 21, 2021. Currently assigned to Station 23.

Previously assigned to Station 4 and Station 43 (when the rescue occurred). Holds a bachelor's degree in political science from the College of Staten Island. Recipient of the Unit of the Month.

Resides on Staten Island.

Appointed to the FDNY on October 26, 2020. Previously assigned to Station 17.

Recipient of a Pre-Hospital Save (2024). Resides in Brooklyn with fiancée Zerina.

EMT Amber M. Black

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EMT Mitchell Tarnapolsky

Station 43

Station 43

oney Island is one of New York City’s for eight years prior to joining EMS—quickly asmost distinctive cultural landmarks, offersessed the situation and took decisive action. EMT ing visitors a combination of nostalgia and exTarnapolsky witnessed two swimmers, roughly 100citement. This atmosphere reaches from the beach to the 200 yards out, displaying agitated/erratic movement. One boardwalk. Thankfully, the serenity of Coney Island’s beach and of the swimmers was occasionally submerging. Given their quick boardwalk is under the careful watch of our NYC Parks Depart- response, EMT Tarnapolsky advised EMT Black that he was goment lifeguards, NYPD officers, the U.S. Coast Guard and— ing into the ocean to save the two swimmers. EMT Black providmost notably—our FDNY EMS Summer Beach Gator detail: 75 ed radio relay and communications to both FDNY resources and Paul (75P) and 75 Queen (75Q). These two units oversee nearly NYC Parks Department about ongoing rescue efforts. 75P, which three miles of coastline and boardwalk and welcome an almost arrived shortly after EMT Tarnapolsky entered the water, began incalculable number of visitors during the summer months. preparing to receive two patients, while EMT Black remained On Saturday, July 6, 2024, the members assigned to Sta- diligent in observing EMT Tarnapolsky’s movements and efforts tion 43’s 75Q—EMTs Mitchell Tarnapolsky and Amber Black— from the coastline. All three members remained mindful that and 75P— EMTs Roger Canale and Ciro Napolitano—not EMT Tarnapolsky could also need assistance during the rescue. only embraced this iconic spirit, but also set a new standard Through unwavering determination, EMT Tarnapolsky sucthrough their demonstration of unparalleled bravery and re- cessfully made contact with the swimmers and immediately lentless determination. took hold of and supported the intermittently submerging Days after celebrating Independence Day, widely recognized swimmer. EMT Tarnapolsky then gave verbal direction to the as a busy time for beachgoers, Coney Island’s oceanfront was second swimmer to hold onto the legs of the secured swimmer warm and inviting, with minimal waves. This created a relaxing and, while supporting both swimmers, began making his way to atmosphere for both leisure and the shoreline. Meanwhile, EMTs Canale swimming. At roughly 6 p.m., the and Napolitano entered the water to ascalm environment was shattered sist with recovery of the swimmers and when two teenagers were reported provide support to EMT Tarnapolsky. drowning off the shore by West 23rd EMT Black was supplementally proand the Boardwalk. Thanks to the viding updates and coordination with NYC Parks Department team and incoming additional resources. Thanks active monitoring of the Parks radio to the coordinated efforts of our memtraffic by EMS members, the crews bers, two young lives were saved. of 75Q and 75P were provided early For their teamwork, selfless acnotification of this reported incident tions and unwavering perseverance and expeditiously reported to the rein the face of unknown dangers, EMT layed location.

Mitchell Tanapolsky and EMT Amber 75Q was the first to arrive on Members of Station 43 who rescued two teens from drowning Black now carry the honor, legacy and scene, and EMT Tarnapolsky—an on July 6, 2024. From left to right: EMT Mitchell Tarnapolsky, spirit embodied by our Christopher J. NYC Parks Department lifeguard EMT Amber Black, EMT Roger Canale, EMT Ciro Napolitano. Prescott Medal.—BR Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Brooklyn Citizens Medal & FF Louis Valentino Award Lieutenant Edward P. Velten Ladder Company 157

December 28, 2024, 0305 hours, Box 75-3110, Brooklyn

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Appointed to the FDNY on July 14, 2014. Promoted to lieutenant after the incident, in April 2025.

Now assigned to Battalion 47. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 157 and Engine Co. 255. Holds a bachelor's degree in criminology and criminal justice from University of Maryland. Recipient of a Unit Citation (2019) and three Pre-Hospital Saves (2016, 2017, 2018). Member of the FDNY rugby team.

Resides in Belle Harbor, New York, with wife Cara and children Nora, Fallon and James.

n the dark and rainy early-morning hours of December 28, 2024, at 3:05 a.m., Ladder Company 157 and Engine Company 255 responded to a call for fire in the basement at Brooklyn Box 3110, a two-story private dwelling. As they turned down the smoke-filled, dead-end block, members immediately noticed nearly a dozen civilians standing outside in nightwear, sheets and blankets.

After confirming the fire location, the inside team of Ladder 157 quickly entered the first-floor front door and searched for the stairs to the basement. Their search confirmed that the only access to the basement was an exterior entrance at the rear of the dwelling.

Before Engine 255 stretched their hoseline, Ladder 157 used the rear entrance to access the basement, which was in complete darkness and full of heat and suffocating smoke.

After descending and making the first turn off the stairway, then-Firefighter Edward Velten (forcible entry) was instantly forced to his stomach by the overpowering heat. He commenced his search for fire and victims, splitting off from his officer, Lieutenant Michael McPartland, and the can firefighter, FF Matt Martin (E-255, detailed to L-157 for the tour) to cover more ground. His search led him down a hallway with fire rolling overhead and

to a doorway where he discovered the main body of fire.

After transmitting this information and communicating with the rest of his team, FF Velten used the door of the room to partially shield himself from the inferno as he continued his search. Advancing through the room under high heat and zero visibility, he made his way past a labyrinth of furniture, where he found a motionless victim in the corner, under a mattress and with burns to his body.

Transmitting the discovery to his team, FF Velten moved the heavy mattress to access the victim as FF Martin moved in to keep the fire at bay with the water extinguisher. FF Velten pulled the victim’s limp body out of the burning room, through the hallway and up the stairway to the rear yard, where members stood by to begin life-saving treatment. FF Velten then returned to the basement to complete his search and regroup with other members inside.

By risking his own safety, FF Velten successfully rescued a victim found in a very difficult position, ultimately saving his life. Under extremely arduous conditions, Firefighter Velten showed outstanding courage and tenacity, reflecting the highest standards of the FDNY, for which he is awarded the Brooklyn Citizens Medal and FF Louis Valentino Award.—MB

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Yadira Arroyo Medal July 7, 2024, 1715 hours, CAD 3864, Queens

Appointed to the FDNY on October 16, 2017. Previously assigned to Station 55.

Recipient of a Unit Citation (2023), a Unit of the Month (December 2022) and FDNY Certificate of Recognition (COVID-19). Member of FDNY lacrosse team. Resides in East Rockaway, New York.

Appointed to the FDNY on February 5, 2018.

Holds a bachelor's degree in emergency services administration from Adelphi University. Recipient of the Chief James Scullion Medal (2022), a Unit Citation (2023) and a Pre-Hospital Save (2022). Resides in East Rockaway, New York.

EMT Saverio J. Bosco Jr.

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EMT Andrew J. Ochtera

Station 47

Station 47

he summer months of 2024 proved to determined that a backboard would be the safbe a busy time for FDNY units working on est way to stabilize the victim and remove her New York City’s 520 miles of waterfront. On from the jetty. They packaged the victim, which Sunday, July 7, 2024, on Rockaway Beach, FDNY was challenging due to the uneven surface of the EMTs Andrew Ochtera and Saverio Bosco conducted jagged rocks, the steep angle and the slippery algae/ a remarkable ocean rescue operation while working on one water-covered area. The good Samaritan carefully ascended of the FDNY’s summer beach Gators. the rocks, then Captain Ellison and EMT Ochtera slid the victim At approximately 1700 hours, on Beach 96th Street in Far up the rocks and passed them to lifeguards and FDNY Robotics Rockaway, Station 47’s beach unit (74P) was alerted to numerous firefighters for removal off the jetty. swimmers caught in a rip current along the Beach 91 rock jetty.

Firefighter and lifeguards also began removing one of the The FDNY Robotics Unit raised their drone overhead to gain a two victims from the opposite side of the jetty. EMT Ochtera better visual of the incident while New York City lifeguards en- then scrambled down to the remaining victim, who was clostered the water to retrieve the victims. er to the waterline. He positioned himself below the victim in Knowing the swimmers were in danger of being pushed into order to prevent him from sliding back into the water should the rocks from incoming tide and heavy surf, the EMTs decided to they be hit by a rogue wave. Meanwhile, members from Enhead to the jetty. EMT Bosco drove the gator while EMT Ochtera gine Company 266 and the Robotics Unit placed a water rescue ran five blocks through the crowded beach and traversed 100 tether rope under the victim’s arms to help secure him while yards of slippery jetty to assist the patients and lifeguards. The waiting for the backboard. group was now on the base of the jetty, being slammed against While all this was happening, EMT Bosco was coordinating the rocks by the rising tide and incoming waves. the movement of medical equipment and additional backboards While the lifeguards tended to two victims on one side of the from the beach to the jetty and requesting additional medical jetty, EMT Ochtera moved to the opposite side, toward another resources for the victims. With the equipment in place, EMT Bovictim and a good Samaritan who sco joined EMT Ochtera had swum out to help. The two and Captain Ellison in were in a precarious position, dothe packaging of victims, ing their best to hold onto the rocks removing them from the as waves crashed over them. EMT beach and into waiting Ochtera climbed down the jagged ambulances. rocks to help secure both people.

For their heroic team He quickly assessed the victim and effort, performed with recognized that she was unable to little regard for their climb up the rocks without help. own safety, the FDNY Off-duty Squad 252 Captain is proud to award the James Ellison—who was visiting Yadira Arroyo Medal to the beach and offered to help— EMT Andrew Ochtera EMT Andrew Ochtera (left) and EMT Saverio Bosco (right). Right: While the first had also arrived on the rocks. Left: and EMT Saverio Bosco patient is carried off the jetty, EMTs Ochtera, EMT Bosco and lifeguards package a second Together, he and EMT Ochtera patient and assess/treat a third patient. (Photo by FDNY Command Tactical Unit) of EMS Station 47.—CB Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Hugh Bonner Medal & Honor Legion Medal Firefighter Matthew E. Nolan Squad Company 41

February 23, 2024, 1414 hours, Box 22-1647, Manhattan Appointed to the FDNY on January 14, 2013. Previously assigned to Engine 84 and Ladder 34. Holds an associate degree in fire science from Dutchess Community College. Member of the FDNY Emerald Society and snare drummer for the Emerald Society Pipes and Drums. Resides in New Windsor, New York, with wife Jennifer and children Jack, Declan and Trent.

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t 1414 hours on February 23, 2024, the Manhattan Communications Office “loaded up” Box 1647, due to the quality and quantity of phone calls, for a reported fire on the third floor of an isolated six-story multiple dwelling and ordered Squad Co. 41 to respond. While en route, Battalion 16 transmitted the 10-75, just before NYPD Aviation advised dispatch that they had observed multiple people hanging out windows on the exposure 3-4 side of the building.

Armed with this information, Squad 41’s Lieutenant Joshua Wiener ordered his outside team—Firefighters Matthew Nolan (roof) and Thomas Morrison (hook)—to the roof with the life-saving rope (LSR). As the firefighters made their way to the front of the building, sizing up the operation to determine the best way to the roof, a handie-talkie transmission from the roof announced that they were starting a rope rescue. Upon acknowledging the transmission, Battalion 16 ordered Squad 41 to get another rope to the roof immediately.

Battalion Chief Daniel Schug (B-16) advised members that due to fire blowtorching into the hallway from the fire apartment, companies had yet to ascend above the fire floor. Understanding that time was a factor, FF Nolan and FF Morrison hustled to Ladder Company 34’s apparatus, located at the exposure 1-2 corner of the fire building, and quickly ascended their aerial ladder to the roof.

FF Morrison arrived on the roof first. He was in the process of lowering Firefighter Michael Kotzo (L-28, chauffeur) to rescue a civilian from the top-floor window—the second rope rescue at this incident. Dropping down onto the roof, FF Nolan rushed to the rear 3-4 corner of the building where the rope rescue was taking place. As soon as FF Kotzo pulled his victim free from the window, another victim appeared through the smoke. As Firefighter Matthew Murphy of Rescue Company 3 proactively secured his life-saving rope to a substantial object, FF Nolan alerted him of the need for another rope rescue. FF Nolan clipped the snap hook to his harness and straddled the parapet as FF Murphy took four turns around his harness hook and directed him to dismount the parapet.

With FF Morrison now relaying commands, FF Nolan reached the window and was met with thick, black smoke issuing around a panic-stricken civilian. After giving the man instructions to wrap his arms around the firefighter’s neck, FF Nolan pulled himself toward the victim. However, the terrified civilian grabbed the rope as he came out of the window. Using all his strength, FF Nolan wrapped his arms

and legs around him.

Once the victim was firmly secure, FF Nolan yelled, “DOWN” to his relay. FF Nolan's grip on the victim was steadfast as FF Murphy lowered them both safely to the ground, where he was handed to awaiting EMS personnel.

In his incident report, Battalion Chief Daniel Schug noted, “FF Nolan entered into a chaotic scene and performed his duties aggressively, decisively and without hesitation to save the life of a man above the

Members of Squad Co. 41 from left to right: FF Sean Heater, FF Michael Grigoli, Lt. Joshua Wiener, FF Matthew Nolan, FF Thomas Morrison and FF Christopher Brown.

fire.” Firefighter Matthew Nolan performed the third rope rescue that day within the highest traditions of the Fire Department of the City of New York, and he is presented today with the Hugh Bonner Medal/Honor Legion Medal.—TM

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Firefighter Matthew Nolan picks up a panicstricken victim at the window.

BC Thomas J. Neary Bronx/Harlem Firefighter Medal Firefighter Jason J. Lopez Ladder Company 28

February 23, 2024, 1414 hours, Box 22-1647, Manhattan Appointed to the FDNY on April 24, 2023. Member of the FDNY Hispanic Society. Resides in Manhattan, and has a child named Ian.

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n Friday, February 23, 2024, at Realizing that a roof rope rescue was 1414 hours, Ladder Company 28 the only viable means of saving them, FF responded first due to Box 1647 Lopez transmitted his intent to initiate for a reported fire in a six-story, non-firethe life-saving operation. Ladder Comproof multiple dwelling. While en route, pany 28’s chauffeur, Firefighter Michael Manhattan Dispatch relayed urgent reKotzo, and FF Dawkins immediately ports of occupants hanging from fire esjoined FF Lopez to assist in setting up capes. As Ladder 28 arrived, Lieutenant the rope evolution. FF Kotzo readied Robert Perrone transmitted a size-up inthe life-saving rope (LSR) and secured dicating heavy smoke showing and conthe lowering point as Lopez clipped in firmed victims trapped at windows and and mounted the parapet. FF Dawkins hanging from the fire escapes. assumed the role of the guide and mainAssigned to the roof position, Proba- Ladder Co. 28’s FF Christopher Dawkins acts as tained communication with the victims. guide while FF Michael Kotzo lowers FF Jason tionary Firefighter Jason Lopez, along Lopez to rescue a victim at the window. (Photo Once over the edge, FF Lopez was with Firefighter Christopher Dawkins courtesy of NYPD Aviation) lowered down the building’s rear façade. (outside vent), ascended the aerial to the As he descended to the window level, roof. As they scaled the ladder, a radio report from Lt. Per- he made contact with a panicked victim, whom he calmly inrone indicated that the fire apartment was located on the structed to remain still. With precision and care, he wrapped third floor, with the apartment door left open—allowing what his arms securely around the individual, bracing for the comturned out to be a heavily fueled lithium-ion battery fire to bined weight. Lopez and the victim were safely lowered to spread into the public hallway. Recognizing the severity of the ground, where he transferred the occupant to Engine the situation and the potential for trapped occupants on the Company 59 for immediate medical attention. Without deupper floors, FF Lopez prepared for immediate roof opera- lay, he returned to the roof to continue operations. tions.

Firefighter Lopez’s actions that day were marked by courUpon reaching the roof, Battalion 16 transmitted that mul- age, composure and an unwavering commitment to the lives tiple individuals were hanging from windows on the 4 side of others. His selfless decision to initiate a roof rope rescue of the building. Shortly after, another urgent transmission re- under extreme conditions—placing himself at great personal ported a jumper down in the rear alley. Without hesitation, risk—exemplifies the very highest traditions of the FDNY. For FF Lopez made his way to the edge of the 4 side and con- his valor and decisive decision-making under extreme stress, firmed the presence of several victims clinging to windows Firefighter Jason Lopez is awarded the BC Thomas J. Neary on the top floor, pleading for help.

Bronx/Harlem Firefighter Medal.—BC

Members who operated at Manhattan Box 22-1647, February 23, 2024. From left to right: FF Michael Ninivaggi (E-80), FF Royce Allman-Changkit (E-234), FF Christopher Dawkins (L-26), Lt. Damian LaPene (E-69), FF Timothy Tenney (E-69), FF Jason Lopez (L-28), FF Michael Kotzo (L-28), FF Michael Sassi (E-69), Lt. Robert Perrone (L-28), FF Stephen Hayes (L-28), FF Sebastian Espinoza (E-313), BC Daniel Schug (B-16) and FF Timothy Gavigan (L-28).

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Emily Trevor Mary B. Warren Medal Battalion Chief Robert S. Wind Ladder Company 125

January 13, 2024, 0217 hours, Box 75-6616, Queens

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Appointed to the FDNY on May 31, 2005. Promoted to battalion chief after this incident, in December 2024.

Currently detailed to Division 15. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 125 (captain); Engine Co. 310 (lieutenant); and Ladder Co. 126, Engine Co. 303 and Ladder Co. 158 (firefighter). Holds a bachelor’s degree in emergency management from SUNY Empire State College. Recipient of a Class III and Service Rating B (2024), two Unit Citations and two Pre-Hospital Saves. Father, Firefighter Robert L. Wind, retired from Ladder Co. 126; grandfather Firefighter Henry P. Wind retired from Engine Co. 299 and is deceased; great-grandfather Lieutenant John E. Fagan retired from Ladder Co. 24 and is deceased. Resides in Hauppauge, New York, with wife Kimberly and children Jack, Paige and Riley.

n January 13, 2024, at 2:17 a.m., Ladder Company observed a partially open front bedroom door, which he entered 125 responded to a call for a fire in a private dwelling, to encounter punishing heat conditions and zero visibility. With with reports of a child trapped. Upon arrival, members flames rolling over his head along the ceiling, Captain Wind beobserved a fire on the second floor of a two-story, attached, gan an aggressive search of the bedroom, located a bunk bed flat-roof private dwelling. Captain Robert Wind, commanding and immediately searched both the top and bottom bunks. With Ladder 125, was met by a distraught woman at the front door no child in hand and conditions deteriorating, Captain Wind laid to the building, screaming that her down on his stomach and swept child was upstairs. his hands under the bed. Feeling a Captain Wind made his way up child’s arm, he immediately made the staircase to the second floor, a transmission indicating he had where he observed members of the found a victim and started removNYPD exiting down the stairway, al. Captain Wind pulled the unconovercome by smoke and confirming scious child out from under the bed fire on the second floor. Met with as Engine Company 315 began exextreme heat and zero visibility, he tinguishing fire with their hoseline. crawled approximately 2 feet off the Shielding the victim with his back to staircase, where he encountered the heat and flames, Captain Wind the main body of fire, from floor to brought the girl down the hall to ceiling in the area of the front bedthe second-floor staircase, where rooms. Captain Wind searched the he passed the child over the railing bathroom and rear bedroom first, to members from Engine Co. 299. then returned to the second-floor They carried the victim outside to hallway, determined that the victim waiting EMS members, who perhad to be on the opposite side of formed lifesaving treatment and the fire in one of the front bedrooms. transported the child to the hospital.

The only way to access the front Thanks to the heroic actions of bedrooms was to quickly pass by Captain Robert Wind on that cold, the heavy volume of fire. Given the winter night, a little girl is alive strong possibilitoday. His comty that a child was posure and protrapped inside one fessionalism under of those bedrooms, extreme condiand with fire rolltions embody his ing across the secdedication to the ond-floor ceiling, firefighting service.

Captain Wind atCaptain Wind’s actempted access to tions exemplify the the front bedrooms highest standards without the protecof the FDNY, for tion of a hoseline. which he is awardAfter successfully ed the Emily Trevnavigating this difor/Mary B. Warren ficult position, he Members who operated at Queens Box 6616, January 13, 2024, from left to right: FF Jerry Quintero, FF Medal.—MB Brian Paglino and FF Walter Calderon of Engine Co. 315; FF Edward Ramilo, Captain Robert Wind, FF Robert Hughes, FF Fernando Rodrigues, FF Thomas Ferro and FF Matthew Newman of Ladder Co. 125.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Thomas E. Crimmins Medal Firefighter David Nkrumah Ladder Company 47

December 4, 2024, 2140 hours, Box 75-3092, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on April 24, 2023. Holds an associate degree in liberal arts from Westchester Community College. Is an Ironworker Local 40. Resides in Brooklyn.

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n December 4, 2024, at 2140 hallway, Captain Jost veered right to hours, Ladder Company 47 research the kitchen. FF Nkurmah and ceived a phone alarm reporting FF Torres kept crawling straight tofire in a multiple dwelling in the Westward the two bedrooms. chester Square section of the Bronx.

In the middle of the hallway, FF Upon arrival on scene, Captain Carl Jost Nkurmah came across an unconIII transmitted a 10-75 for fire out two scious victim lying on their back. windows on the fifth floor of a six-story, He called out to Captain Jost that non-fireproof multiple dwelling. he had located a 10-45 and began Captain Jost’s inside team includremoving the victim toward the ed Firefighter David Nkrumah (irons) door of the apartment. FF Nkurand FF Victor Torres Jr. (can). While mah was quickly met by FF Torres, they ascended the stairs to the fifth who helped bring the victim back floor, the members were told that no down the long hallway, still without one was inside the fire apartment. a hoseline operating within the fire However, upon arriving at the fire apartment. As the pair approached apartment door, Captain Jost quickthe seat of the fire in the living ly realized that someone was surely room, the heat intensified, and inside since the deadbolt, chain and FF Nkurmah did his best to shield police locks were all engaged. The the victim from the flames, injuring inside team began working on the himself and getting burned in the door, and FF Torres process. was forced to use After removing the vica reduced-profile tim to the public hallway SCBA maneuver to and handing them off to enter the fire apartother units, FF Nkurmah ment, disengage the returned to the fire apartpolice lock and fully ment and continued with open the door. the rest of his first-due Inside the aparttruck duties. As noted by ment, Ladder 47’s Battalion 20 Commander inside team was imBonasera, “...he made mediately met with an aggressive search in heavy fire coming deteriorating conditions, from the living room, without the protection which was to the right of a hoseline. He passed of the entrance. Withfire twice and exposed out the protection of a himself to extreme percharged hoseline, the sonal risk.” It is for these team crawled past the reasons that Firefighter living room and began David Nkurmah is being their primary search of awarded the Thomas E. the apartment. After Crimmins Medal.—KC left to right: FF Richard Guarnieri, FF David Nkrumah, FF Victor Torres Jr., FF Brandon crawling down a long From Miller, Captain Carl Jost and FF Bobby Wolmart.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Thomas A. Kenny Memorial Medal Firefighter Daniel Centonze Rescue Company 4

August 4, 2024, 0717 hours, Box 75-7816, Queens Appointed to the FDNY on May 4, 2003. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 119 and Squad Co. 270. Holds an associate degree in fire science from Empire State University. Father, Firefighter Vito Centonze, retired from Engine Co. 298 in 1981. Resides in North Massapequa, New York, with wife Marissa and children Mason, Maddox and Mia Bella.

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n the early Sunday morning of August 4, 2024, the tones rang out and Rescue Company 4 was assigned first due to Queens Box 7816 for fire on the first floor of a two-story private dwelling. En route, the dispatchers notified responding companies that there were civilians trapped on the second floor.

Pedestrians at the scene waved fire companies onto the block, and Captain Patrick Burns observed a large volume of fire blowing out the exposure 2 side windows. As Engine 292 stretched the initial hoseline, Firefighter Daniel Centonze (can) and Firefighter Giovanni Martinez (irons) donned their SCBAs, forced entry on the first floor and were immediately faced with fire extending out of the open door, into the hallway and up the stairs. As the team entered the building, FF Centonze used his extinguisher to attempt to hold back the fire through the disintegrated apartment door. He knew they needed to get to the second floor quickly, and they crawled on their bellies up the burning staircase.

On the second floor, intense heat and zero visibility forced the team to the floor. FF Centonze began his right-hand search toward the rear of the apartment. The first door was unlocked and led to a small bedroom. After a quick search with negative results, he continued his search and forced a locked door to gain access to the adjoining bedroom.

Entering the bedroom, he immediately attempted to shut the door behind him. The room had the same deteriorated condition as the hallway and was filled with clutter, making crawling very difficult. As FF Centonze moved on his hands and knees to maneuver around the obstacles, he crawled toward the rear to vent the bedroom window.

After a quick search of the top of the bed, he dropped back to the floor and swept underneath and around it. FF Centonze found an unconscious female lying on the floor and transmitted the 10-45, then began to move the slumped woman to safety. He held her by her upper body and started to pull her toward the doorway. He continued to bring her across the room when Firefighter Al Francis (R-4, chauffeur) emerged and assisted him in the woman’s removal.

Together, they moved toward the stairs. The fire was still burning in the apartment below, continuing to deliver thick black smoke and high heat up the staircase. At the top of the stairs, FF Centonze lifted the woman on his shoulder while shielding her with his body. He descended the staircase, made his way past the other operating members and exited the building, carrying the victim straight to EMS. FF Centonze operated on the floor above a heavy fire con-

FF Centonze climbed the burning staircase to the second floor of the two-story multiple dwelling, where he located and rescued an unconscious victim. (Photo

by FDNY Bureau of Fire Investigation)

dition, without the protection of a hoseline.

Because of his bravery and courage and putting his own life at great personal risk, this woman survived a life-threatening situation. For his actions and efforts during operations at Queens Box 7816, Firefighter Daniel Centonze of Rescue Company 4 is awarded the Thomas A. Kenny Memorial Medal.—PB

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Walter Scott Medal Firefighter Jeffrey L. Mirabal Ladder Company 54

September 4, 2024, 1603 hours, Box 75-2676, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on June 12, 2017. Holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Mercy College.

Member of the FDNY Hispanic Society and FDNY Vulcan Society. Resides in Yonkers, New York, with wife Paola and children Daniel, Evan, Ethan and Ayana.

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s the day tour came to a close on September 4, 2024, Ladder Company 54 received a telephone alarm for smoke coming from a private dwelling at Bronx Box 2676. While en route, an additional caller confirmed the address. As Ladder Company 54 and Engine Company 96 turned onto the block, they saw heavy black smoke pushing under pressure from the second and third floor windows of a three-story attached dwelling. Engine 96 promptly transmitted the 10-75 for a fire on the second floor.

As Ladder 54’s inside team—Lieutenant Thomas Scharfenberger, Firefighter William Cavinee (irons, detailed from E-96) and Firefighter Jeffrey Mirabal (can)—exited the apparatus and made their way to the entrance, people reported that there were residents possibly trapped inside. The team also observed an occupant hanging from a third-floor window who, due to the punishing conditions inside, jumped shortly thereafter and survived with a fractured leg.

As Engine 96 began stretching their handline, the inside team made their way to the second floor, encountering heavy smoke and little visibility. On the second-floor landing, the members were met with an open apartment door, high heat and visible fire just inside the apartment. They pushed their way into the fire apartment under extreme heat, and FF Mirabal attempted to cool the overhead fire with the can extinguisher.

Lt. Scharfenberger crawled toward the fire bedroom door in an attempt to close it, but the door had burned through, and fire extended above into the kitchen and living room. With the can now expended, the members initiated a primary search.

As FF Cavinee began a left-hand search of the blacked-out apartment, FF Mirabal heard muffled cries within the apartment to his right. He notified his officer and, without hesitation or the protection of a hoseline, crawled down the hallway, searching deep into the apartment. While moving in the direction of the sounds, FF Mirabal passed visible fire before he reached a rear bedroom, where he found the now-unconscious woman slumped in the doorway. Knowing time was not on his side, FF Mirabal transmitted a 10-45 over his radio and quickly began removing the victim through the hallway, into the now fully involved living room and toward the apartment door. He was met by Lt. Scharfenberger and FF Cavinee. Together, they removed the victim—in extremely high heat, with heavy fire rolling over their heads—to the landing. They attempted to close the door, but heavy fire continued to vent into the second-floor landing through the burned-out door.

Firefighters Mirabal and Cavinee continued to move the victim down the stairs and onto the street. Despite their exhaustion, they immediately rendered much-needed first aid and medical care to the victim as they awaited the arrival of EMS. Firefighter Jeffrey Mirabal acted in the highest traditions of this Department, at great risk to his own personal safety.

He saved the life of a civilian who would surely have perished if not for his actions. For his efforts, he is awarded the Walter Scott Medal.—RAW

September 4, 2024, Bronx Box 75-2676. (Photo from Citizen App)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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John H. Prentice Medal Firefighter Christopher G. Carlin Ladder Company 56

October 5, 2024, 0226 hours, Box 75-3309, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on December 11, 2017. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 48 and EMS Station 50. Holds a bachelor's degree in kinesiology from James Madison University. Recipient of the Father Julian F. Deeken Memorial Medal (2024) and Lt. James Curran/New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation Medal (2023). Brother Firefighter Kevin Carlin is assigned to Ladder Co. 26; Brother EMT Gregory Carlin is assigned to Station 50; Father, Battalion Chief George Carlin, retired from Battalion 16 in 2007. Resides in Mineola, New York, with wife Erin and child Jonathan.

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firefighter assigned to the outside vent position plays a critical role in fireground operations. Firefighters assigned to this position must make quick and decisive decisions to save lives. On Saturday, October 5, 2024, Ladder 56 Firefighter Christopher Carlin demonstrated this skill.

At 2:27 a.m., Ladder Company 56 responded first due to a phone alarm for a fire on the second floor of a six-story multiple dwelling in the Bronx.

Upon arrival, the company was met by multiple people in the street and heavy smoke billowing out of several windows. Ladder 56’s officer, Captain John Hunt, informed the outside team that there were numerous civilians on the front fire escape. FF Carlin immediately made his way to the fire escape, where several individuals were shouting for help. Using his hook, he dropped the fire escape ladder and climbed up. He assisted one civilian from the second floor and three others from the third floor, guiding them down

the fire escape through the thick smoke venting from the second-floor windows.

Captain Hunt and the inside team—Firefighters James Brush (forcible entry) and James McDonagh (can)—were met with heavy fire venting out the slightly open door of the fire apartment on the second floor. They attempted to gain entry, but the door was barricaded from the inside with old air-conditioning units and debris.

FF Carlin, having heard the transmissions about the door challenges, climbed back up the fire escape. He notified his officer that he was going to vent the first window and gain entry into the apartment kitchen. Once inside, FF Carlin was met with dense, acrid smoke that severely limited his visibility. Pressing on, he searched the kitchen and into the hallway, where he encountered severe heat and fire rolling over his head. FF Carlin then crawled into the living room, searching through a medium clutter condition to the window. After venting the second window, he continued his search and found an unconscious victim under a couch.

Firefighter Carlin notified Captain Hunt and began removing the victim toward the front door.

By now, the inside team had gained entry, and FF Carlin was met by Firefighters Brush and McDonagh, who assisted him in removing the unconscious victim out of the apartment and down the stairs to waiting FDNY EMS members.

Firefighter Carlin’s actions at this fire undoubtedly saved a civilian’s life. He showed great initiative and bravery as he diligently searched a smoke- and heat-filled apartment for residents without the protection of a hoseline. He acted in the highest traditions of this Department, and for this reason, the John H. Prentice Medal is presented to Firefighter Christopher Carlin, Ladder Company 56.—CB

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Henry D. Brookman Medal Battalion Chief Ryan C. Brito Ladder Company 34

February 23, 2024, 1417 hours, Box 22-1647, Manhattan Appointed to the FDNY on July 1, 2008. Promoted to battalion chief after this incident, in February 2025.

Currently assigned to Division 15. Previously assigned to Ladder Company 34 (captain), Engine Company 16 (lieutenant) and Ladder Companies 1 and 80 (firefighter). Holds a bachelor's degree in emergency management from John Jay College. Recipient of a Pre-Hospital Save (2018), a Unit Citation (2017), a Class B (2015) and Unit of the Month (2007). Member of the FDNY Hispanic Society. Resides in Manhattan.

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he phrase "So that others may live" encapsulates the core principle of self-sacrifice and the willingness to put oneself in harm's way for the well-being of others. Every FDNY member who responded on the first-alarm assignment to Manhattan Box 1647 on February 23, 2024, lived up to that motto. Several of these members had direct hands-on impacts that provided others a second chance at life. Captain Ryan Brito of Hook and Ladder Company 34—who has since been promoted to battalion chief—was one of those members.

As the second-due ladder company at a six-story, non-fireproof multiple dwelling, the members of Ladder 34 were responsible for searching and operating on the floor directly above the fire—the most seriously exposed fire area. On that afternoon, a lithium-ion battery fire engulfed the entrance to a third-floor apartment, causing heavy fire and smoke to enter and extend up the adjacent open stairwell. These flue-like conditions trapped numerous civilians on every floor above the fire, causing several to jump in an attempt to escape the flames and smoke. Others were left clinging from windowsills on the top floor, requiring immediate rescue by FDNY members.

Arriving at a chaotic scene takes monumental strength, courage and focus to complete all the basic firefighting responsibilities, in addition to addressing life-threatening situations. Initially pinned down at the second-floor half-landing,

Captain Brito and his inside team made an assertive effort to pass the fire apartment—which was adjacent to the stairwell—and to make their position on the floor above, the fourth floor.

While Firefighter Juan Gonzalez (L-34, irons) forced the door to the apartment directly above the fire, Captain Brito— on his belly—rapidly searched the blacked-out and heatscorched public hallway, which only moments earlier had been consumed by fire. At the opposite end of the hallway, Captain Brito found an unconscious victim and transmitted a 10-45. Concerned there were additional civilians overcome by the dense lithium-ion battery smoke, Captain Brito continued his search to find a second unconscious victim in the hallway, transmitting the signal once again and requesting assistance.

With no time to wait, Captain Brito packaged the first victim and pulled him back to the stairwell to Squad 41 members. He then returned to the second victim and was aided

by FF Gonzalez, who helped him remove the victim down the stairwell to members waiting on the floors below. The duo then ascended the heat-charged stairway yet again to complete their primary task of searching the severely exposed apartment directly above the fire.

At great personal risk, and in punishing heat and heavy smoke conditions, Captain Ryan Brito of Hook and Ladder Company 34 located, rescued and removed two fire victims. For his valiant efforts, Captain Brito is awarded the Henry D. Brookman Medal of valor, in the finest traditions of the FDNY.—SM

The hallway where then-Captain Brito (Ladder Co. 34) found two victims in zero visibility on the fourth floor, the floor above the fire floor. (Photo by FDNY Bureau of Fire Investigation)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Chief Ulyses Grant Leadership Medal Lieutenant Justin H. Kinney EMS Special Operations

July 4, 2024, 2054 hours, CAD 4509, Corlears Hook Park, Manhattan Appointed to the FDNY on September 23, 2013. Was detailed to EMS Special Operations at the time of the incident. Currently assigned to Station 50. Previously assigned to Stations 4, 55 and 47. Holds a bachelor's degree in biology from Touro University. Recipient of multiple Pre-Hospital Saves, multiple Unit Citations and Officer of the Quarter (4th of 2022). Resides in East Setauket, New York.

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n July 4, 2024, at around 2054 hours, what began as a joyous Independence Day celebration in Manhattan’s Corlears Hook Park turned into a devastating mass casualty event.

Members of EMS Command were operating on CAD 4508 (and associated CADs 4509, 4528 and 4534) when a motor vehicle driven by an intoxicated individual lost control while speeding down Water Street. The car barreled through the intersection at Jackson Street, veered onto Scene of the mass casualty incident on July 4, 2024. (Photo courtesy of Dean Moses) the sidewalk, smashed through a ment—including the presence of propane, sparks and heavy fence and plunged 2 feet below grade—straight into a crowd cutting tools—Lt. Kinney worked flawlessly, proving instruof civilians. mental to the success of the operation. The rapid extrication The impact was catastrophic. Many people sustained in- and medical care provided gave victims a fighting chance at juries, with four individuals classified as red tag patients— survival, a chance that may not have existed without these needing immediate care for a life-threatening condition— heroic efforts. trapped beneath the wreckage. Their extrication was both Under effective direction, all responders executed their urgent and complex, requiring precision, teamwork and un- roles with precision, swiftly extricating the trapped victims, wavering focus amid the chaos. securing the scene and maintaining order in a tense situation.

As EMS members arrived on the scene, they were met with For his leadership, bravery, composure and commita volatile environment. The sheer scale of injuries combined ment to duty under extreme circumstances—exemplified with the shock and distress of bystanders created an emotion- at the highest standards of this Department—Lt. Justin ally charged atmosphere. The threat of civil unrest loomed, Kinney is being awarded the Chief Ulyses Grant Leaderwith an enraged crowd watching the unfolding rescue efforts. ship Medal.—RL Despite these challenges, the EMS teams worked with remarkable efficiency and professionalism, stabilizing the injured while ensuring their own safety in an unpredictable setting.

One of the key responders, Lieutenant Justin Kinney, played a critical role in the extrication and treatment of two of the most challenging patients. The first patient was trapped under the center of the vehicle, in a confined space made even more difficult by nearby bleachers. Navigating these obstacles, Lt. Kinney provided essential direction to BLS crews while working alongside Rescue and Haz-Tac units. The second patient was wedged between the foundation wall of the fence and the vehicle, necessitating a coordinated effort with Fire and ESU to cut through the fence. Throughout the operation, Lt. Kinney maintained patient contact, ensuring swift treatment and transport. Despite the unstable environFire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Hispanic Society 23rd St. Fire Memorial Medal of Valor Firefighter Bryan Garcia Ladder Company 163

August 4, 2024, 0717 hours, Box 75-7816, Queens Appointed to the FDNY on November 11, 2019. Previously did a year rotation in Engine Co. 26. Served in the United States Marine Corps. Member of FDNY grappling/wrestling team. Resides in Bayside, New York.

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n Sunday, August 4, 2024, Tower Ladder Company 163 received a call for a fire on the first floor of a two-story private dwelling in Queens. En route to the fire, the first arriving company, Engine Company 292, confirmed that there were growing flames on the first floor of the home and multiple people trapped inside. As the second-due truck, members of Tower Ladder 163 knew their objective would be to access the floor above the fire to search for victims.

Once the company arrived on scene, members immediately observed heavy fire venting from a first-floor window on the side of the home. Firefighter Bryan Garcia, who was assigned to the outside vent position, quickly grabbed a 24-foot extension ladder and made his way down the driveway, past the fire.

Once he reached his position behind the burning home, FF Garcia swiftly climbed a 6-foot ladder to ascend a rear setback. He then pulled his 24-foot extension ladder upward and positioned it against a window on the exposure 3-4 corner of the residence. Now operating on the setback, FF Garcia teamed up with a member of Rescue Company 4. They both climbed another ladder to access the adjacent second-floor bedroom where victims were reportedly trapped.

FF Garcia entered the bedroom window to find himself standing on top of a bed positioned below it. He was immediately met with high heat and thick black smoke conditions, which forced him down to the floor and onto his belly. From there, Garcia conducted his search while crawling through the residence with little visibility, relying solely on his remaining senses and training.

FF Garcia located an unconscious child who was lying on the ground nearby, overcome by smoke. Garcia promptly informed Command that he had located a fire victim and quickly scooped the child up into his arms. He then carried the child down a nearby set of stairs after determining that it would be too difficult to exit through the window while carrying the victim. FF Garcia made his way through the home while shielding the young victim’s body from the intense heat of the fire with his bunker coat. Moments later, he exited the front of the residence with the child in his arms and began lifesaving measures until EMS took over.

By bravely searching above the fire without the protection of a hoseline, Firefighter Bryan Garcia demonstrated incredible courage and initiative. His swift and decisive actions in the face of grave danger exemplify the finest traditions upheld by the FDNY, and he is awarded the Hispanic Society/23rd Street Fire Memorial Medal of Valor.—DB

Ladder Co. 163 members who operated at Queens Box 75-7816, August 4, 2024. From left to right: FF Jack Cook, Lt. Matthew DeMatteis, FF Bryan Garcia, FF Oscar Hernandez (E-325) and FF Joseph Mortillaro.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Michael J. Delehanty Medal Firefighter Rafael J. Germosen Ladder Company 51

July 20, 2024, 2327 hours, Box 22-3457, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on June 27, 2016. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 38. Recipient of a Service Rating A (2024), Unit Citation (2022) and three Pre-Hospital Saves (2017). Member of the FDNY Hispanic Society. Resides in the Bronx with wife Maribel and children Mariel, Bella and Katara.

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n July 20, 2024, at 2327 hours, Tower Ladder Company 51 responded first due to a reported fire in a private dwelling in the Allerton section of the Bronx. Due to the time of day, the crew working that night knew there was a higher probability that people would be inside the dwelling.

Engine 38 arrived and transmitted a 10-75 for fire on the first floor of a two-and-a-half-story, peaked-roof private dwelling.

Upon arrival, Firefighter Rafael Germosen (Ladder 51, roof) grabbed his tools and made his way down the exposure 2 alley, toward the rear of the dwelling. Before he reached the backyard, a neighbor shouted to FF Germosen that someone was still inside the dwelling in the rear of the first floor. Without hesitation, FF Germosen went up the short stoop in the rear, vented the sliding glass door on the first floor, donned his SCBA and entered the dwelling. Once inside, due to the extreme heat and thick smoke, FF Germosen quickly realized that he was conducting his search for the victim right next to the main body of fire.

While he searched the rear bedroom, numerous lithium-ion batteries explod-

ed and discharged, allowing the main body of fire to quickly grow and the conditions in the bedroom to rapidly deteriorate.

Without the protection of a charged hoseline, FF Germosen continued his search and located an unconscious victim on the floor next to the bed. He transmitted the signal 10-45 and began removing the lifeless victim back to the sliding door from which he entered. Upon reaching the doorway, he was assisted

by Ladder 51’s outside vent, Firefighter Christopher Morvillo.

The two firefighters carried the victim to the front of the house, assessed him and began life-saving treatment. Members of Engine Company 66 relieved them, and FF Germosen returned to the fire building to complete primary searches.

As noted by Battalion 15 Commander Kenneth Knapp, “FF Germosen acted in the highest traditions of bravery and exposed himself to great personal risk while rescuing this victim, all the while without the protection of a charged hoseline.” It is for these reasons Firefighter Rafael Germosen is being awarded M.J. Delehanty Medal.—KC

Post-fire scene of the rear bedroom where FF Germosen found an unconscious victim at this lithium-ion battery fire, July 20, 2024. (Photo by FDNY Bureau of Fire Investigation)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia Medal Lieutenant Kevin M. Kirrane Ladder Company 154

March 30, 2024, 0256 hours, Box 75-7771, Queens Appointed to the FDNY on May 31, 2005. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 51. Holds a bachelor's degree in English from SUNY Albany. Recipient of three Pre-Hospital Saves (2018, 2020, 2023). Member of the FDNY Emerald Society, FDNY Holy Name Society and FDNY Steuben Association. Brother Captain Jack Kirrane is assigned to Division 7. Resides in West Hempstead, New York, with wife Lisa and children Emma and Avery.

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n the morning of March 30, 2024, at 2:56 a.m., Ladder Company 154 responded first due to a call for smoke on the sixth floor of Queens Box 7771. Upon arrival, the inside team of Ladder 154 were met at the entrance to the seven-story, H-type multiple dwelling by an occupant who stated that he smelled smoke on the sixth floor.

Lieutenant Kevin Kirrane and his inside team—Firefighter Ryan Boyle (forcible entry) and Firefighter Radford Arrindell (can)— immediately raced up the stairway to the sixth-floor landing, where they encountered a medium smoke condition. Lieutenant Kirrane determined which apartment the smoke was coming from and called over his radio for a hoseline to be stretched. He then directed FF Boyle to force open the apartment door.

After they donned their facepieces and forced open the door, dense, black smoke and superheated fire gases immediately began to discharge from the apartment into the hallway.

Lieutenant Kirrane reminded his members that the engine company had just started to stretch the hoseline and that they would not have the protection of water during their initial search.

The members began their search under high heat and zero visibility. Lieutenant Kirrane could hear the crackling sound of the fire coming from straight ahead inside the apartment.

Under intense heat and debilitating conditions, Lieutenant Kirrane and FF Arrindell crawled through cramped and cluttered conditions until they reached the seat of the fire. At this time, Ladder 154's OV, Firefighter Edward Fitzgerald, radioed that he was going to be delayed due to multiple civilians on the fire escape. Lieutenant Kirrane ordered FF Arrindell to

use the water extinguisher to hold back the intensifying fire so that he could crawl past the fire to continue his search.

After making his way into the rear bedroom, Lieutenant Kirrane performed a quick primary search under conditions of high heat and blinding smoke when he located a victim on the floor, barely clinging to life. Lieutenant Kirrane immediately transmitted the location of the victim over his radio and began the arduous task of removing the victim back through the apartment to the hallway. In the hallway, the victim was handed off to FF Arrindell and members of Engine Company 316, who administered life-saving care as they brought the victim down to EMS. Lieutenant Kirrane went back into the fire apartment and ordered FF Boyle, who now had the water extinguisher, to continue knocking down fire so he could pass the fire again to complete his search.

Lieutenant Kirrane represented the finest traditions of the FDNY in his willingness to place himself at unusual personal risk, under extreme fire conditions and without the protection of a hoseline, to save the life of a victim. Lieutenant Kirrane‘s bravery and professionalism is evidenced by his actions, and he remains steadfast in his commitment to the firefighting service, even in the face of overwhelming challenges. He is awarded the Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia Medal.—MB

Members from Ladder Co. 154, from left to right: FF Radford Arrindell, Lt. Kevin Kirrane and FF Ryan Boyle.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

29

William F. Conran Medal Firefighter Michael J. Gannone Ladder Company 174

May 4, 2024, 0425 hours, Box 75-3897, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on December 7, 2018. Resides on Staten Island.

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n May 4, 2024, at 4:25 a.m., Ladder Company 174 responded to a call for smoke in a multiple dwelling.

Upon arrival at Brooklyn Box 3897, members discovered smoke emanating from a first-floor apartment in the B wing of a four-wing, four-story, 100- by 100-foot residential complex.

Firefighter Michael Gannone, the forcible entry firefighter in Ladder 174 that night, made his way into the fire building with the inside team, Lieutenant Paul Gamin and can firefighter Terence Moriarty. As they arrived at the door to the fire apartment, Captain Mascia (Engine Co. 248) relayed to the team that he had received information of someone trapped inside.

Ladder 174 members donned their self-contained breathing apparatus facepieces and entered the punishing environment to search for the main body of fire and victims. Lieutenant Gamin crawled into the apartment and discovered fire immediately to the left, in the living room. FF Gannone communicated to his officer that he was going to pass the

fire in his search for victims. Upon entering a bedroom under high heat and heavy smoke, FF Gannone swept the top of the bed, where he immediately found an unresponsive victim. He removed the victim off the bed and onto the floor, notified his officer of the victim and prepared for removal.

With fire now rolling across the ceiling, Firefighter Gannone began the arduous task of removing the lifeless victim toward the apartment entrance, where FF Moriarty met him to assist in the removal. The firefighters removed the victim to the hallway, where members began life-saving measures and transported her out of the building to EMS. The actions of Firefighter Gannone at this fire were commendable. His diligent search efforts under punishing conditions led to him locating and removing an unconscious victim suffering from burns and smoke inhalation. Under high heat and limited visibility, FF Michael Gannone placed himself at unusual personal risk to save the life of another. For his actions at this fire, he is awarded the William F. Conran Medal.—MB

Members of Ladder Co. 174 who operated at Brooklyn Box 3897 on May 4, 2024: FF Terrance Moriarty, FF Michael Gannone, Lt. Paul Jamin, FF Brian O’Grady, FF Anthony Orlandi and FF Ken Ternlund.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

30

Chief John J. McElligott Medal & FFs Fitzpatrick and Frisby Award Lieutenant Brian P. Currid Ladder Company 33

February 15, 2024, 0610 hours, Box 22-4767, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on July 14, 1996. Previously assigned to Ladder 26 (firefighter). Holds a bachelor's degree in physical education from University of Brockport. Recipient of four Unit Citations. Brother Battalion Chief Martin Currid is assigned to Battalion 45. Brother Captain Michael Currid retired from Ladder Co. 31 in 2021. Uncle Captain Michael Currid retired from Ladder 49. Resides in Warwick, New York, with wife Ellen and children Ciara and Teagan.

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he FDNY has been renowned for engaging in aggres- and rooms. In unison, Ladder 33 and Engine 42 moved toward sive firefighting tactics that have undoubtedly saved exposure 1 and were confronted with two rooms of fire. the lives of thousands of New Yorkers. While tactics, As Engine 42 moved into the room to their immediate right technology and training continue to evolve, the fundamental to extinguish fire, Lt. Currid made entry into the adjoining approach of an aggressive primary search remains crucial in room. In zero visibility with fire rolling over his head, Lt. Currid saving lives. was forced to the floor. He pushed on in the deteriorating conOn the morning of February 15, 2024, Ladder Company ditions to perform a primary search. Ten feet inside the room 33 was assigned to Box 4767 for a report of a fire in a private he found an unconscious female on a mattress. Lt. Currid imdwelling. As Ladder 33 responded, Bronx Fire Dispatch updat- mediately transmitted a 10-45 and began the arduous task of ed that they were receiving multiple calls for fire in that area. removing the lifeless victim.

As the company traversed the Grand Concourse, they obAs Lt. Currid reached the served a large column of smoke in the vicinity of 176th Street bedroom door, FF Morrison arand Topping Avenue. rived to assist him in removing Engine Company 42 the unconscious victim into the transmitted an urgent to hallway. Knowing his primary Bronx Dispatch for fire search on the fire floor was not on the second floor of a complete, Lt. Currid handed the three-story Brownstone. victim off to FF O’Conner and Ladder 33 arrived first due FF Robert Camaj (outside vent) to an advanced fire venting for further removal. He also noout of the exposure 1 wintified the incident commander dows of the second floor of the need to clear an exit path and heavy smoke pushing to the street in order to rapidly under pressure from the remove and treat the victim. Lt. third floor. Lieutenant BriCurrid then returned to the front an Currid led Ladder 33’s two rooms to complete his priAftermath of this second-alarm fire.

(Photo by EMT Kimberly Socci) inside team—Probationary mary search.

Firefighter Edward MorriThe survival of this son (can) and Firefighter victim was a direct result Kevin O’Conner (irons)— of the aggressive primaup the interior stairs to the ry search Lt. Currid persecond floor, where they formed under extreme fire were met with high heat conditions. He put himself and fire from floor to ceilat great personal risk, eming. The team attempted to bodying the highest trabegin their primary search ditions of the New York but were pushed back by City Fire Department. For extreme heat and flames. these actions, Lieutenant At this time, Engine ComBrian Currid of Ladder pany 42 advanced their Company 33 is awarded charged hoseline up the the Chief John J. McEllistairs to aggressively extin- Members who operated at Bronx second alarm, February 15, 2024. From left to right: FF gott Medal and FirefightBarada (E-75), FF Kevin O’Connor (L-33), Lt. Brian Currid (L-33), FF Keith McBride guish the fire consuming Chase ers Fitzpatrick and Frisby (L-33), FF Patrick Fiffe (L-33), FF Diocar Vega (E-43), FF Robert Hagan (L-33), FF Edward the second-floor hallway Morrison (L-33), FF Frank Quesada (L-33), Lt. Jon Ziegler (L-33) and FF Robert Camaj (L-33). Award Medal.—FW Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

31

Thomas F. Dougherty Medal Firefighter John Hlavacek Rescue Company 4

August 4, 2024, 0717 hours, Box 75-7816, Queens

Appointed to the FDNY on July 28, 2002. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 302 and Ladder Co. 155. Holds an associate degree in liberal arts from Nassau Community College. Recipient of three Unit Citations (2020, 2017, 2015). Resides in Kings Park, New York, with wife Bonnie and children Jack, Thomas and Michael.

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t 0717 hours on August 4, 2024, Rescue Company 4 was dow. FF Hlavacek donned his dispatched to Queens Box 7816 for a fire on the first facepiece and entered the floor of a two-story private dwelling. While responding, room. dispatchers reported that they were receiving numerous calls FF Hlavacek crawled in, and that people were trapped on the second floor. landing on top of a bed. He As the inside team—Captain Patrick Burns, Firefighter Daniel quickly searched the matCentonze (can) and Firefighter Giovanni Martinez (irons)—betress before climbing off the gan forcing the front entrance bed and into the clutter-filled door, Firefighter John Hlavaroom. FF Hlavacek found an cek (roof) sized up the buildunconscious, large-framed ing and proceeded to the man face down and covered rear. FF Hlavacek immediately in blankets, wedged betransmitted that the building tween the bed and furniture. had three stories in the rear He transmitted the 10-45 and that a civilian was at the and his location and called top-floor window with smoke for assistance. He grabbed showing. After calling for ladhis webbing, wrapped it ders in the rear, FF Hlavacek FF Hlavacek pulled a ladder onto the rear porch and positioned it at the window of around the man and began grabbed an extension ladder the second-floor bedroom where three unconscious victims were found. to remove him toward the from the adjacent residence doorway. and climbed onto the rear covered porch. He then lifted the ladFire was still burning on the floor below, with high heat and der onto the porch roof and positioned it to the second-floor win- thick smoke emanating up the staircase. As he pulled the man dow. He climbed the ladder, cleared the window and removed over the clutter and out of the bedroom, he was met by Resthe victim down the ladder. The rescue 4’s chauffeur, Firefighter Al Francis. ident then informed him that three Together, FF Hlavacek and FF Francis people were still inside the adjacent took hold of the man and, after hearbedroom. FF Hlavacek immediately ing the line operating below, began transmitted over the handie-talkie descending the stairs. FF Hlavacek that three civilians were still trapped shielded the victim from the fire and on the top floor. high heat while slowly maneuvering With conditions worsening in the him down the severely burnt staircase. entryway, Captain Burns had notiHe continued down the exterior stairfied members that fire in the staircase, where he was met by a CFRD enwell was being knocked down by gine company and EMS. the can extinguisher, which delayed FF John Hlavacek was faced with searches on the second floor. FF several challenges at this fire: multiple Hlavacek repositioned the rickety trapped people on the second floor, a homeowner ladder to the adjacent cluttered apartment causing a difficult bedroom window and scaled it. removal, and a heavy fire that was not FF Centonze had just vented the yet extinguished. His brave, selfless bedroom window from inside and actions resulted in a man being reswas in the process of removing a Rescue 4 members who operated at Queens Box 75-7816, cued from certain demise, for which victim. Thick black smoke and high from left to right: Captain Patrick Burns, FF Al Francis, FF John he is being awarded the Thomas F. heat were pushing from the win- Hlavacek, FF Daniel Centonze, FF Giovanni Martinez and FF Dougherty Medal.—PB Patrick Dolce.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

32

Bella Stiefel Medal Firefighter Kevin C. Routledge Ladder Company 18

November 14, 2024, 1956 hours, Box 77-0245, Manhattan

Appointed to the FDNY on June 12, 2017. Previously assigned to Engine Company 15. Member of the FDNY Phoenix Society. Resides in Manhattan with wife Asli.

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n the evening of November 14, 2024, at approximate- their primary search. Because the FDNY Critical Information ly 1956 hours, Tower Ladder Company 18 received a Dispatch System (CIDS) stated that the building was occupied phone alarm reporting a fire in an apartment on the by elderly and handicapped residents throughout, FF Rout11th floor at Box 0245. Engine Company 15, Tower Ladder ledge recognized the critical time factor. He also knew there Company 18, and Battalion 4 responded to the 11-story, fire- was a high probability of an incapacitated occupant and improof multiple dwelling, a structure that is predominantly in- mediately conducted a right-hand search. habited by elderly and handicapped residents.

Firefighter Routledge's search began behind the apartment Upon arrival, Tower Ladder 18 was met by the building su- door and led him past the fire, through a hallway and bathroom perintendent in the lobby. He reported observing significant and into a bedroom area severely compromised by a medium smoke on the 11th-floor public hallway. The elevators were clutter condition. Probing through the clutter, FF Routledge disquickly recalled and placed into fire service. Tower Ladder covered an unconscious victim lying on a bed. He instantly trans18’s inside team—Lieutenant Jordan Salvador, Firefighter mitted a 10-45 and began the arduous task of victim removal.

Kevin “Rutty” Routledge (forcible entry/irons) and Firefighter Firefighter Routledge, facing deteriorating conditions, used Dominic Torre (can)—exited the elevator on the ninth floor, his body to protect the victim while removing her through the two floors below the anticipated fire floor. Unexpectedly, they heat and smoke. He then proceeded to move the victim down encountered a medium smoke condition in the public hallway. a flight of stairs, prioritizing immediate life-sustaining medical The members quickly identified the fire apartment due to treatment. As the victim was removed, Engine Company 15 visible smoke under pressure escaping from around the door made an aggressive interior attack to extinguish the fire. Upon jamb, coupled with significant heat radiating into the hallway. A hearing the 10-45 transmission, Firefighter Frank Milazzo (TL10-77 was promptly trans18, outside vent), who was mitted to Battalion 4, while staged on the seventh Firefighters Routledge and floor, moved his elevator Torre began the challengto the eighth floor. Togething task of forcing entry er, they transported the through a tough metal victim to the lobby, where door with multiple locks she was placed under the engaged. care of EMS. As TL-18 breached the Firefighter Kevin Routapartment's threshold, the From left to right: FF Dom Torre (can), FF Kevin Routledge (irons) and Lt. Jordan Salvador. ledge’s actions that night firefighters were imdemonstrated exmediately confrontceptional courage ed with zero visibiliand resolve under ty, intense heat and some of the most thick, black smoke. challenging conWhile awaiting the ditions. FF Routhoseline, Firefighter ledge’s unwaverTorre utilized the waing determination, ter extinguisher from quick thinking and a strategic position commitment to near the entrance, saving lives were simultaneously maininstrumental in the taining door control success of this op0245, November 14, 2024, from left to right, top: FF Casey Chan, E-15 (nozzle); FF Frank Milazzo, and serving as a bea- Box eration. He is awardTL-18 (OV); FF Dom Torre, TL-18 (can); Lt. Santino DeGregorio, E-15; Lt. Jordan Salvador, TL-18; FF Kevin con while his fellow Routledge, TL-18 (irons); FF Anthony Olivares, E-9 (roof); FF Kevin Alore, TL-18 (LCC); and FF Santino Barone, ed the Bella Stiefel inside team began E-15 (control). Kneeling from left: FF Roycott Myers, E-15 (ECC) and FF Nick Parsons, E-15 (backup).

Medal.—BPJ Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Tracy Allen-Lee Medal October 6, 2024, 0925 hours, CAD 1648, Bronx

Appointed to the FDNY on September 12, 2013.

Previously assigned to Station 10. Holds a bachelor's degree in music industry from Northeastern University and a master's degree in media studies from The New School. Recipient of a Meritorious Act (2017).

Resides in Woodside, New York.

Appointed to the FDNY on October 15, 2018. Previously assigned to Station 10 and Station 16. Holds a bachelor's degree in fire science from New Jersey City University.

Recipient of Excellent Duty with Merits (2021), six Pre-Hospital Saves (2020 [3], 2022, 2023, 2024), two Unit of the Month awards (2022, 2023) and COVID-19 Pandemic Ribbon (2023).

Resides in Brooklyn with wife Brigit.

Paramedic Amanda J. Czaja

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Paramedic Philip D. Dacey

Station 14

Station 14

hen EMTs, paramedics and firefighters begin their tour each day, they never know what challenges they may face. There are evolutions and scenarios that can be trained and practiced, and then there are those that require quick thinking based on unforeseen circumstances. Regardless, the mission to protect the citizens and visitors of the City of New York holds no bounds.

On October 6, 2024, Paramedics Amanda Czaja and Philip Dacey of Station 14 were clearing up from a medical call in the Hunts Point section of the Bronx. As they completed paperwork in their ambulance, a frantic civilian flagged them down.

The civilian stated that there was a woman being viciously attacked by a large dog down the block. Without hesitation, both paramedics left the safety of their ambulance to investigate.

At the scene, they witnessed a woman who was pinned in a corner, actively being mauled by a vicious dog and screaming for help. Paramedic Czaja swiftly moved toward the attacking dog and grabbed its collar. Although successful in removing the dog off of the victim, Paramedic

Czaja was bitten numerous times, suffering deep lacerations. While this occurred, Paramedic Dacey shielded bystanders from the still-loose dog. The dog then lunged at Paramedic Dacey and bit him numerous times, causing serious puncture wounds.

Although injured, Paramedics Czaja and Dacey knew they had to control the dog, which was still trying to attack the original victim and bystanders. Both paramedics shielded the victim and diverted the dog away from the brutally injured woman. With the dog now distracted and its back turned, Paramedic Dacey was able to restrain and pin it to the ground. Paramedic Dacey kept the dog secured until NYPD arrived, while Paramedic Czaja began to care for the attacked patient.

Without hesitation, Paramedic Czaja and Dacey jumped into action to save the life of a fellow New Yorker. Through numerous serious dog bites, they worked together to keep the safety and well-being of the patient and bystanders their No. 1 priority. For their dedication and service, Paramedic Amanda Czaja and Paramedic Philip Dacey are awarded the Tracy Allen-Lee Medal.—FW

Paramedics Philip Dacey (left) and Amanda Czaja (right) at Station 14 in the Bronx.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

34

Vincent J. Kane Medal Firefighter Marc J. Douglas Ladder Company 45

February 23, 2024, 1414 hours, Box 22-1647, Manhattan Appointed to the FDNY on May 13, 2019. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 15 (for one year detail).

Recipient of a Unit Citation (2021) and two Pre-Hospital Saves (2022). Member of the FDNY Hispanic Society. Resides in Yonkers, New York, with fiancée Kayla.

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hen Ladder Company 45 was dispatched to a twoalarm fire in Manhattan on February 23, 2024, they knew that the members already on scene were dealing with challenging conditions and numerous victims. Immediately upon arrival, Lieutenant Paul Hoekzema reported into the command post for Ladder 45’s assignment. They were ordered to the top floor of the six-story multiple dwelling due to the heavy smoke condition, which was fueled by a lithium-ion battery fire and the third-floor fire apartment door being left open.

Ladder 45 faced the arduous task of climbing up the interior stairs, where multiple patients were being removed and a second handline was being stretched. Despite the difficult conditions and heavy smoke, they quickly reached the top floor.

Realizing the number of apartments and severity of the conditions, Lt. Hoekzema split the company into two for a quicker primary search of the top floor. Firefighter Marc Douglas, assigned to the can position, and Firefighter Nicholas Morisano, outside vent, were directed to search the apartment across the hall, which was in the same line as the fire apartment.

Firefighters Douglas and Morisano forced the apartment door and found zero visibility inside. FF Douglas began a right-hand search, entering the kitchen and then a bedroom that had multiple mattresses on the floor. After searching the bedroom, he proceeded to a rear bedroom, navigating

through heavy clutter. He finally felt a bed, where he located an unconscious male victim. He immediately transmitted a 10-45 and began to remove the victim to the hallway. FF Morisano, who had searched the large living room and bathroom, met him in the hallway to assist with the removal process. Lt. Hoekzema heard the 10-45 over the radio and made his way into the apartment to assist in clearing furniture to accelerate the removal of the victim.

Once outside the apartment, Firefighter Douglas and Firefighter Morisano worked seamlessly together to start their difficult removal to the street. On the way down the stairs, they navigated over multiple hoselines strewn across the stairs and numerous members operating in the stairwell and hallways.

Once the victim was turned over to EMS, they immediately ascended the stairs back to the top floor, joining the other members of Ladder 45 to continue searches, which proved negative.

Despite working in zero visibility, overcrowded stairs, chaotic conditions and high CO levels, Firefighter Douglas persisted in his mission, performing a primary search for victims.

His dedication to duty and his discipline to conduct a primary search of the top-floor apartments, despite the turmoil unfolding around him, enabled him to rescue a person and save their life. For his extreme bravery, Firefighter Marc Douglas is awarded the Vincent J. Kane Medal.—CB

Left: Smoke-damaged stairway leading from the fifth floor to the sixth floor. Right: Firefighter Douglas searched in zero visibility and heavy clutter to find a victim in the rear bedroom on the sixth floor. (Photos by FDNY Bureau of Fire Investigation)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

35

Pulaski Association Medal Firefighter Ysnaldo Perez

Engine Company 60 (assigned); Ladder 17 (detailed) January 13, 2024, 0559 hours, Box 77-2139, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on December 12, 2016. Served in the National Guard for eight years. Member of the FDNY Hispanic Society. Resides in Brooklyn with wife Kianette and child Lorenzo.

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n the cold early morning hours of January 13, 2024, the Bronx communications office transmitted a phone alarm reporting a fire in an apartment on the 19th floor of a sprawling 20-story housing complex at Bronx Box 2139.

Ladder Company 17 arrived first due, and as the inside team of Lieutenant Michael Rogdakis, Firefighter Ysnaldo Perez (irons, detailed from Engine Company 60) and Firefighter Krys Freebes (can, detailed from Engine Company 71) made their way to the lobby, they were met by a tenant who confirmed the floor and location of fire apartment, adding that there was an occupant still inside.

The team put the elevator into service mode and took it to the 17th floor, then climbed the stairs to the fire floor. Upon arrival on the 19th floor, they were met with an odor of smoke in the public hallway. As they went farther toward the end of the long hallway, they could see smoke emanating from a locked apartment door and knew they had a fire. Lt. Rogdakis transmitted the 10-77, and FF Perez and FF Freebes began forcing entry into the apartment.

Once the door was forced, the inside team donned their facepieces and crawled into the apartment, where they were instantly met with high heat and zero visibility due to heavy black smoke filling the apartment.

Lt. Rogdakis and FF Freebes initiated a right-hand search as Firefighter Perez began to search left. An intensifying fire in the living room, adjacent to the apartment entrance, began to consume the apartment. As conditions rapidly deteriorated, the intensifying heat and heavy black smoke pushed the members to the floor.

FF Perez crawled beyond the growing fire and proceeded down a narrow hallway toward a rear bedroom. With a rapidly extending fire growing behind him, he quickly entered the rear bedroom to perform a search and found an unconscious victim lying on the floor at the foot of the bed. FF Perez called for help and began immediately removing the victim from the bedroom and down the hallway, toward the apartment door. He met up with Lt. Rodgakis in the living room, and they continued to pull the victim out of the superheated apartment and into the relative safety of the hallway.

Once the unconscious civilian was transferred to the CFR engine, Firefighter Perez and Lt. Rodgakis went back into the fire apartment and continued to perform the rest of their duties.

Firefighter Ysnaldo Perez put himself in significant danger at this incident. He crawled past a rapidly intensifying fire with zero visibility and without the protection of a hoseline. His bravery resulted in a life saved. His actions represent this Department's great tradition of courage and selfless service, for which he receives the Pulaski Association Medal.—RAW

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

36

Commissioner Edward Thompson Medal Firefighter Joseph E. Pansini Ladder Company 127

February 8, 2024, 1043 hours, Box 75-4914, Queens Appointed to the FDNY on March 7, 2004. Attended Wilson Technologies automotive and HVAC school.

Recipient of multiple Unit Citations (2005, 2010, 2013 and 2019). Resides in Northport, New York, with wife Patricia and children Emily and Joseph.

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n February 8, 2024, at around 10:43 a.m., Engine Company 298 and Ladder Company 127 responded first due to Alarm Box 4914 for a report of a fire in the rear of a private dwelling. The engine and ladder companies responded from different directions as they came from a previous call. A column of smoke could be seen from a few blocks away. Ladder 127 arrived with Engine Company 303 and Battalion 50, who transmitted the 10-75. The companies knew they had work.

At the front door, Ladder 127’s inside team—Captain Frank Macchia and Firefighters Manni Mojica and William Moore—masked up and entered the house to begin their search. Firefighter Paul Ray (outside vent) made his way to the rear, where he gave reports of heavy fire venting from the windows on the exposure 3/4 corner of a rear setback.

Meanwhile, Ladder 127’s chauffeur, Firefighter Joseph Pansini, set up the tower ladder and accessed the second floor from the bucket.

While FF Pansini performed a search under medium smoke condition, he heard the OV’s transmissions and made his way to the rear setback via the interior of the private dwelling. At the bottom of the stairs, he was met with high heat and zero visibility. The fire had extended from the setback and was now extending into the kitchen. While the fire rolled overhead, FF Pansini crawled through the kitchen, making a search of the area. Due to the unique layout of the home, Engine 298 stretched their line through the front door, out a rear door and into a separate side door, then into the setback.

The situation began to rapidly deteriorate. FF Pansini felt the heat through his bunker gear and still pressed on through a maze of dining room furniture. His efforts were not in vain: He found an unconscious male tucked away in the corner of the room. FF Pansini transmitted the 10-45 code, which alerted Battalion 50 and all units to the presence of a victim. He then grabbed the limp victim and began the removal. Engine 298 began to apply water on the fire, and FF Pansini met with Captain Macchia, who assisted in the removal. Through their teamwork, the two members were able to safely remove the victim to the exposure 2 alley.

Outside, FF Pansini began life-saving measures on the victim.

While he was working on the unconscious man, Engine Company 305 arrived with EMS supplies and took over patient care.

FF Pansini acted alone, with no regard for his personal safety and in the greatest tradition of the FDNY and Ladder

127. Without the quick thinking, aggressive and selfless actions made by FF Pansini, the victim would not have survived.

It is for these reasons that Firefighter Joseph E. Pansini is awarded the Commissioner Edward Thompson Medal.—JD

Ladder 127’s FF Joseph Pansini (chauffeur) positioned the bucket at the exposure 1 window, made entry and found a victim in the rear setback.

Members of Ladder Co. 127 on February 8, 2024, Box 4914, Queens (left to right): FF Paul Ray, Captain Frank Macchia, FF William Moore, FF Ryan Hall, FF Joseph Pansini and FF Manni Mojica.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

37

Columbia Association Medal Firefighter Duane L. Davis Rescue Company 3

February 23, 2024, 1414 hours, Box 22-1647, Manhattan Appointed to the FDNY on May 4, 2003. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 58 and Ladder Co. 13. Holds an associate degree in fire protection technology from Rockland Community College. Recipient of a Service Rating B (2010) and Unit Citation (2011). Resides in Stony Point, New York, with wife Julie and children Cole and Dalton.

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n February 23, 2024, Rescue Company 3 was assigned to Manhattan Box 1647 for a fire in a multiple dwelling. As the company responded, it was clear through radio reports that numerous people were trapped, with some hanging out windows on the upper floors. As the members of Rescue 3 approached the front of the fire building, they encountered a chaotic scene with numerous civilians screaming that a person had just jumped from an upper floor, and the Chief reporting that multiple roof rope rescues were in progress. Lieutenant Michael “Mickey” Conboy of Rescue 3 split up his company, sending one team to assist with roof operations and the other to assist with searches on the upper floors.

Rescue 3 Firefighter Duane Davis made his way up the tight wraparound interior stairs of the six-story, O-shaped tenement building, passing members removing two unconscious victims.

As FF Davis reached the third floor—the fire floor—it was clear that the door to the fire apartment had been left open. Heavy fire—started by a lithium-ion battery explosion—had been blowing out into the public hallway and up into the only open interior stairwell, creating a heavy smoke and high heat condition on all the upper floors. As Engine Company 69 began to push in on the fire, FF Davis kept moving up to the floors above, an extremely dangerous position for both civilians and firefighters.

Via his thermal imaging camera (TIC), FF Davis could hear and see members already operating on the fourth floor, so he continued up to the fifth floor, where he did not hear firefighters operating. He encountered high heat and zero visibility and was forced to his hands and knees. FF Davis quickly scanned the hallway with his TIC, notified his officer and began searching the fifth floor.

He found and forced the door to the apartment in line above the fire apartment and conducted a primary search, which was negative. He continued to the adjacent apartment—which was unlocked—and, still in zero visibility, began his search. He crawled on his hands and knees down the long interior hallway, searching two bedrooms and a bathroom before arriving in the kitchen, where he located an unconscious adult victim.

FF Davis immediately transmitted a 10-45, then quickly began the arduous task of removing this victim down the tight interior stairwell. Once he reached the second floor, he handed this victim off to other firefighters. Firefighter Davis then proceeded back to the fifth floor to complete his searches, which proved negative.

Division 6’s Deputy Chief James Donlevy said, “Firefighter Davis performed an effective search under difficult conditions; he located the victim and effected his removal. If not for his efforts, the victim would not be alive today.” Firefighter Duane Davis’s heroic actions are an affirmation of why people around the globe refer to FDNY firefighters as “the Bravest,” and he is awarded the Columbia Association Medal.—FW

Above: Members of Rescue Co. 3 take up from a multiple dwelling fire on New Year’s Day 2025. From left to right: FF Pete Constantine, FF Chris Lane, Lt. Mickey Conboy, FF Jimmy Lowe, FF Duane Davis and FF Matt Murphy.

Left: Kitchen where victim was found. (Photo by FDNY Bureau of Fire Investigation)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

38

Susan Wagner Medal Firefighter Thomas C. Heedles Ladder Company 148

March 22, 2024, 1743 hours, Box 44-3780, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on May 13, 2019. Recipient of a Class B (2020). Father, Firefighter Dennis Heedles Sr., retired from Ladder Company 76 in 2002 and passed away from a 9/11 WTC-related illness in 2015.

Resides on Staten Island with wife Jeanine and children Thomas Jr. and Matthew.

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n the afternoon of above the fire. Reports over March 22, 2024, Ladthe handie-talkie radio from der Company 148 was members operating outside assigned second due to a restated that they had fire on ported fire at Box 3780. Reboth the first and second sponding units were notified floors of both dwellings. The of multiple addresses and refire was spreading rapidly ports of people trapped. from the rear toward the front Ladder 148 arrived on of the building, and the heat scene with the first-due enwas becoming untenable. Still gine and ladder company. searching without a charged As members dismounted the handline in place, FF Heedles apparatus and prepared to came upon an unconscious eloperate, numerous civilians derly female lying in a daybed gave reports of an elderly along the wall. With fire rollwoman trapped in the building across the ceiling above ing and a child trapped in Upon Ladder Co. 148’s arrival, fire had extended to the building next door. him, FF Heedles quickly transthe attic. Heavy mitted a 10-45 and black smoke was began to remove pushing from the her. He picked her front windows and up, shielded her doorway, as well as from further heat from the building and carried her— next door, since fire unassisted and in had already rapidbrutal heat condily extended there. tions—the 20 feet Ladder 148’s inside back to the front team—Lieutenant door and out onto Richard Cannon, the porch. The vicFirefighter Thomtim was transferred as Heedles and directly to EMS, FF Firefighter Daniel Heedles then reenWatts—made their tered the fire buildway up to the front Ladder 148’s inside team—Lt. Cannon and Firefighters Watts and Heedles—make entry into the three-story ing to search the stoop, where mem- private dwelling as heavy smoke pushes from the front door and windows. (Photos courtesy of Scott Berliner) upper floors for the bers donned their reported missing SCBAs and began to make entry. Heavy black smoke was child, which proved to be negative. pushing under pressure from the front door, indicating that FF Heedles’ experience and training allowed him to perfire was in an advanced stage. form this life-saving rescue without hesitation. He performed Ladder 148 entered the first floor to begin an aggressive his duties under great danger and at great personal risk, search without the hoseline in place due to reliable reports without a hoseline in place in a rapidly deteriorating fire area. that the occupants were unable to get out and were trapped Firefighter Thomas Heedles exemplifies the highest tradiinside. Immediately upon entry, they encountered high heat tions of the Fire Department of the City of New York and for and zero visibility. Firefighter Heedles began a right-hand his bravery is being awarded the Susan Wagner Medal.—MD search to find the interior stairs in order to access the floors Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Steuben Association Medal Captain Kurtis Niemczyk

Battalion 58 (assigned); Ladder Company 159 (detailed) January 23, 2024, 2113 hours, Box 75-3137, Brooklyn

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Appointed to the FDNY on July 1, 2008. Promoted to captain after this incident, in January 2025. Currently assigned to Division 13. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 142, Engine Co. 285 and Ladder Co. 20 as a firefighter. Holds a bachelor's degree in marketing from SUNY Oswego. Recipient of the Police Honor Legion Medal (2019), two Class A and one Unit Citation. Member of the FDNY Columbia Association and FDNY Pulaski Association. Resides in Long Beach, New York, with wife Kristen and children Wesley, Kelly and Nixon.

n the evening of January 23, 2024, Tower Ladder Company 159 received a call for smoke inside a seven-story multiple dwelling in Brooklyn. Upon arrival, the company’s officer, Lieutenant Kurtis Niemczyk—who has since been promoted to captain—was made aware of a growing smoke condition in the A wing’s second floor that was quickly filling the building’s hallway. Unsure of where the smoke was coming from, Lt. Niemczyk began feeling the apartment doors for heat and used his thermal imaging camera to successfully locate the fire apartment. Meanwhile, a radio transmission alerted Lt. Niemczyk to a civilian in danger who was hanging out of the apartment’s second-floor window as flames closed in.

Lt. Niemczyk knew time was of the essence. Once his team—Firefighters Thomas Kelly (can) and Brian Zwolinski (irons)—forced the apartment door, the officer began crawling through the fire apartment without the protection of a hoseline. In doing so, Lt. Niemczyk battled his way through growing flames, high heat and deteriorating conditions. Finally, after following the victim’s cries for help, he found the victim badly burned and precariously hanging out of the window by their pants after becoming entangled in a window safety guard.

By this point, the fire was growing rapidly and had cut off access to the building’s interior stairwell. Lt. Niemczyk knew he

could no longer bring the victim to safety by exiting the apartment the same way he entered. Instead, members outside quickly worked to set up a ladder rescue as Lt. Niemczyk draped his body over the victim to shield them from the blistering heat.

Portable ladders were placed by the open window, but before firefighters could rescue the victim, they had to free him from the window guard. As this was happening, Lt Niemczyk continued to shield the victim with his own body, even as he felt the intense heat of the fire starting to penetrate the thermal layers of his bunker coat.

The fire was now venting out of the window and over their heads, so Lt. Niemczyk directed his can firefighter to use the water extinguisher to control the flames surrounding them. Moments later, the victim was successfully disentangled and removed via the portable ladder.

Although the rescue was complete, fire conditions had further deteriorated inside the burning apartment. Undeterred, Lt Niemczyk swiftly crawled back toward the apartment door to direct Engine 323 to the main area of fire for final extinguishment.

While extraordinary teamwork was displayed by all members on scene, Lieutenant Kurtis Niemczyk's quick thinking and strong leadership skills directly resulted in saving the life of an injured civilian. He did so while operating under perilous conditions and placing himself at great personal risk, preventing what likely could have been a tragic outcome. For this tremendous display of effort and bravery, he is awarded the Ladder Co. 159 operates at another incident at Brooklyn Box 3238 on December 5, 2024.

Steuben Association Medal.—DB (Photo courtesy of Scott Berliner)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Chief James Scullion Medal May 30, 2024, 0627 hours, CAD 0871, Manhattan Appointed to the FDNY on October 26, 2020. Currently assigned to Division 6 Resource Coordination Center (RCC). Previously assigned to Station 13.

Member of the FDNY Phoenix Society. Resides in the Bronx with wife Yingyi.

Appointed to the FDNY on September 13, 2021. Was promoted to firefighter after this incident in December 2024. Currently assigned to Engine Co. 53. Previously assigned to Station 13 (EMT at the time of the incident).

Recipient of a Pre-Hospital Save (2024), Unit of the Month (September 2022) and Certificate of Recognition (COVID-19). Member of Firefighters for Christ - FDNY and the FDNY Hispanic Society. Resides in New Rochelle, New York, with partner Lily and son Ethan.

EMT Ethan Y. Lu

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Firefighter John M. Perez

Station 13

Station 13

ach day, FDNY EMTs and paramedics EMT Perez engaged the man in converrespond to thousands of calls for New sation, talking about sports and his family, Yorkers suffering medical, trauma and in an attempt to calm him down and de-esphysiological emergencies. Each call poscalate the situation. Also complicating sesses its own unique challenges, and oftenthings was the fence below EMT Perez and times FDNY EMS members must adapt and the man, which could seriously injure them overcome by utilizing superlative communiboth if they were to fall. On the ground, cation skills and out-of-the-box thinking.

EMT Lu kept bystanders away from the On May 30, 2024, Station 13 EMTs Ethan front of the building in case this happened.

Lu and John Perez (now a fireShortly thereafter, NYPD fighter assigned to Engine ESU arrived and, with EMT Co. 53) were dispatched to Perez’s translation, was aid a person experiencing a able to convince the man mental health crisis. As they to climb down. Once the arrived, they noticed a man patient was on the ground, standing on a building’s awEMTs Perez and Lu continning, approximately 20 feet ued to care for the patient off the ground. The man was and transport him to a lothreatening to jump and was cal area hospital for further visibly shaken and in distress. treatment.

EMT Perez began to comFDNY EMTs bring not only municate with the distressed their medical expertise to man in Spanish, as he did not calls, but also a deep sense speak English. EMT Perez of empathy while caring for then asked if he could move victims. This high-pressure closer to him so they could moment of an individual exspeak more clearly with each periencing a crisis ended other. With the assistance of positively due to the effective EMT Lu, EMT Perez scaled a communication, high level of wrought-iron fence and posicompassion and quick thinktioned himself on top of an air ing displayed by EMTs Lu and conditioning unit within 5 feet Perez. For their efforts, EMT of the man. At the same time, Ethan Lu and Firefighter John EMT Lu updated dispatch of Perez are awarded the Chief the situation and requested Station 13’s EMT Ethan Lu (left) and EMT John Perez (right, now a firefighter) while James Scullion Medal.—FW additional resources. on 13D3, September 13, 2023.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Dr. J.W. Goldenkranz Medal Firefighter James A. Soutar III Ladder Company 41

July 17, 2024, 0316 hours, Box 75-3077, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on July 29, 2013. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 90. Recipient of the Dr. Albert A. Cinelli Medal and World Trade Center Memorial Medal (2022). Resides in Campbell Hall, New York, with wife Nancy and children James and Ella.

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n July 17, 2024, at 0315 a charged hoseline in place. He hours, Ladder Company made a push to the rear of the 41 received an alarm for apartment to search the bedroom.

Bronx Box 3077, reporting fire FF Soutar discovered a victim in on the third floor of a five-story the hallway outside the bedroom multiple dwelling. The reported and immediately notified Captain address was in the Westchester DeLeo, who transmitted the 10-45.

Square section of the Bronx. LadFF Soutar immediately began the der 41 arrived first due and was arduous task of removing the victim met with heavy fire showing from past the fire and out of the apartthird-floor windows on the “4 ment. Once in the hallway, the vicside” of the building. tim was passed off to members who Knowing time was of the esremoved her down to street level. sence, Ladder 41’s inside team— FF Soutar then returned to Captain Paul DeLeo, Firefighter the fire apartment to continue his James Soutar on the irons and search, knowing he still had to get Firefighter Jeancarlos Arias (deto the rear bedroom. Passing the tailed from E-72) on the can—befire once again, FF Soutar made his gan to rapidly ascend the one inteway to the rear bedroom, where rior stair to the fire floor. The inside he discovered a second victim in team was met with a heavy smoke the bed. FF Soutar notified Capcondition on the third floor. When tain DeLeo of the second victim.

Ladder 41 arrived on the fire floor.

Together, FF Soutar and Captain Upon entering DeLeo removed the the fire apartment, second victim past Captain DeLeo and the still-extending FF Soutar encounfire, without the protered high heat and tection of a charged zero visibility condihoseline in place, to tions. At this point, the street.

Captain DeLeo Without FF Soubegan his search tar’s courage and for the seat of the fortitude, the vicfire. FF Soutar went tims would not have opposite the capsurvived this fire. In tain, conducting a keeping with the vigorous left-hand best traditions of search.

Without the FDNY and for regard for his own exhibiting selfless safety, FF Soutar bravery, Firefightpassed the rapidly er James Soutar extending fire in the is awarded the Dr. living room without J.W. Goldenkranz the protection of Operation at Bronx Box 75-3077 on July 17, 2024. (Photo courtesy of Joseph John Ramos) Medal.—SI Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Uniformed Fire Officers Association Medal Lieutenant Patrick W. Donaghy

Ladder Company 36 (assigned), Ladder Company 33 (detailed) June 20, 2024, 0420 hours, Box 75-3195, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on February 4, 2001. Retired from Ladder Company 36 in January 2025. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 10 and Engine Co. 58 as a firefighter and Engine Co. 95 and Ladder Co. 36 as a lieutenant. Holds a bachelor's degree in public administration from John Jay College. Recipient of two PreHospital Saves and two Unit Citations. Member of FDNY Emerald Society, FDNY Holy Name Society, FDNY Pulaski Association and FDNY Steuben Association. Resides in Nanuet, New York, with wife Andria and daughter Lydia.

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n June 20, 2024, Lieutenant Patrick Donaghy of Ladder Company 36 was working a 6x9 tour in Ladder Company 33. At 0420 hours, Ladder 33 was dispatched first due to a report of smoke on the sixth floor of a multiple dwelling. The building was a six-story, 150- by 150foot, non-fireproof apartment building. Upon Ladder 33’s arrival, Lt. Donaghy and his inside team were making their way up to the sixth floor, when their chauffeur, Firefighter Bobby Hagan, reported smoke coming from the sixth-floor windows, with occupants on the rear fire escape. On the sixth floor, Lt. Donaghy observed smoke in the hallway and coming from around the door of an apartment. Lt. Donaghy directed his inside team to “force the door,” and upon entry, they were met with a heavy smoke condition. Lt. Donaghy transmitted a 10-75 to Battalion 19.

As the hoseline was stretched, Lt. Donaghy and the inside team donned their facepieces and crawled into the burning apartment. The main body of fire had consumed the couch and furnishings in the den area, just inside the door, and was beginning to roll across the ceiling. Lt Donaghy ordered Probationary Firefighter Joseph Donovan (can) to use the extinguisher to contain the fire to that area. At this time, the members heard yelling coming from the rear of the apartment. With zero visibility due to the heavy smoke condition, Lt. Donaghy crawled past the fire along the left wall, moving toward the voice. He directed Firefighter Kevin O’Connor (irons) to begin a right-hand search along the opposite wall.

At this point, the fire in the den could not be controlled, and it extended into the kitchen.

As Lt. Donaghy made his way into the first bedroom, he was notified by FF O’Conner that he had found two conscious, ambulatory victims who were trapped in the second bedroom. FF O’Conner and the civilians sheltered in place until Engine Company 75 extinguished the fire. Lt. Donaghy entered only a short distance into the first bedroom when he found an unconscious woman lying on the floor, halfway under the bed. He immediately transmitted a 10-45 to Battalion 19, then removed the unconscious woman past the fire and into the hallway with assistance from FF Donovan.

Lt. Donaghy did a quick assessment of the victim, whose face was covered with soot, and discovered that she was not breathing. Members of the second-due engine came forward and began life-saving treatment, removing her to EMS crews at street level. Lt. Donaghy and his inside team re-

turned to the fire apartment to complete the primary search.

The two victims sheltering in place were removed safely after the main body of fire was extinguished.

Lt. Donaghy’s actions were within the highest tradition of the FDNY. He operated in a severe environment without the protection of a hoseline to effect the rescue of an unconscious woman. For his actions and bravery, Lieutenant Patrick Donaghy is awarded the Uniformed Fire Officers Association Medal.—AP

Members of Ladder 33, left to right: FF Bobby Hagan (LCC), FF Joseph Donovan (can), Lt. Patrick Donaghy, FF Kevin O’Connor (irons), FF Ed Morrison (roof) and Apostolos Apostolakis (OV, not pictured).

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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William and Gertrude Friedberg Medal Firefighter Marc A. Sylvers Squad Company 252

December 17, 2024, 0118 hours, Box 75-1742, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on March 25, 2007. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 305, Ladder Co. 151 and Ladder Co. 126. Recipient of two Unit Citations and two Pre-Hospital Saves. Resides in Freeport, New York, with wife Monique.

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n the early morning hours of December 17, 2024, Squad Company 252 responded to a phone alarm for a fire at Box 1742, with reports of civilians trapped on the second floor. Upon their arrival, which was just behind the first-due units, the members of Squad 252 were confronted with a three-story mixed occupancy with heavy fire issuing from the commercial occupancy on the first floor. Battalion 44 ordered Lieutenant Matthew Meagher (Sq-252) to split his unit and assist with searches for the reported trapped civilians.

Firefighter Marc Sylvers (hook) and Firefighter William Gill (irons) were tasked to perform the primary search of the second floor, directly over the main body of fire. Upon reaching the front door of the interior stairs, FF Sylvers was met with an extreme smoke condition, rendering zero visibility. Using only his sense of feel, FF Sylver rapidly climbed the interior stairs. On the second floor, he found the apartment door slightly ajar, which led to the area directly above the main body of fire. As FF Sylvers entered the apartment, he began feeling heat through his gear. Relying on his experience, he knew he would have to make an aggressive search. He crawled on his stomach, where he found a living room and began a left-hand search. The search proved negative, so he crawled deeper into the apartment. As conditions continued to deteriorate, FF Sylvers found a bedroom door—and just

Squad Co. 252, from left to right: Lt. Matthew Meagher, FF Mark McGinty, FF Marc Sylvers, FF Keith Mignone, FF Jamah Figaro and FF William Gill.

inside the bedroom, an unconscious victim lying face down on the floor.

FF Sylvers transmitted a 10-45 and called for FF Gill’s assistance due to the victim’s size. Meanwhile, FF Sylvers rolled the victim on his back and spun his body, preparing the victim for removal toward the exit. He used his voice to help FF Gill locate him, and the two firefighters then retraced their path to the interior stairs, removing the victim out of the apartment, down the interior stairs and to the street.

FF Sylvers assessed the victim and began life-saving interventions on the street. He was assisted by Engine Company 290’s chauffeur, and together they worked on the victim until he gasped for air. The victim’s care was transferred to EMS upon their arrival, and he was transported to the hospital for further care.

FF Sylvers performed this rescue directly over a heavy body of fire, in zero visibility, with high heat and a handline not yet in position. He displayed great skill, bravery and determination to remove the unconscious victim from deep within the apartment to the street and perform life-saving interventions. For Firefighter Marc Sylvers’ actions at Brooklyn Box 75-1742, he is awarded the William and Gertrude Friedberg Medal.—RLL

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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American Legion Fire Dept. Post 930 Mark M. Wohlfeld Memorial Medal Firefighter Robert Velazquez Ladder Company 170

October 3, 2024, 2337 hours, Box 2199, Canarsie Pier, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on May 13, 2019. Served in the United States Marine Corps. Recipient of a Unit Citation. Resides on Staten Island with wife Elizabeth and children Ryder, Kendall, Eva and Felicity.

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n October 3, 2024, at 2337 hours, Engine Compa- Simultaneously, the victim was being pulled farther beneath ny 257, Tower Ladder Company 170 and Battalion the pier by the tide. FF Velazquez, guided by the flashlight’s 58 responded to the Canarsie Pier in Jamaica Bay, beam and the victim's faint cries for help, swam toward the vicBrooklyn, for a water rescue. Upon arrival, Tower Ladder 170 tim. During the approach, FF Velazquez's tether line became immediately identified a reliable witness who indicated that tangled on an unseen, unknown object beneath the pier. After the last location where they saw the victim prior to submerg- multiple failed attempts to free the line and understanding the ing was in a general area alongside the Canarsie Pier. urgency of the situation, FF Velazquez made the critical deciThe search was unsuccessful due to limited visibility in addi- sion to pull his PFD’s quick-release mechanism and disconnect tion to the submerged victim being located under a pier. Tower himself from the tether.

Ladder 170 anticipated that the victim, who had been exposed This decisive action, though extremely dangerous, was to cold water, would have reduced motor skills and limited man- deemed necessary to reach the victim before it was too late. ual dexterity. As a result, “reach and throw” water rescue meth- Upon reaching the victim, FF Velazquez discovered the victim ods would not be appropriate. was weighed down with approximately 60 pounds of rocks tied Consequently, under the leadership of Ladder 170’s Lieu- around his waist and body. The added weight made the altenant Clifford Zeilman, the decision was made for Firefighter ready challenging, zero-visibility swim back to the ladder even Robert Velazquez and Firefighter Andrew Spadaro to enter more grueling. Once at the ladder, FF Velazquez and FF Spadathe water using the "Go" methro worked in tandem to load and od. Simultaneously, members secure the victim into a Stokes from Ladder 170 deployed a basket. Ladder 170 members 20-foot straight ladder and sehad established a 2:1 high point cured it against the pier. This to hoist the victim approximately ladder would serve as the ac15 feet over the pier’s railing. cess point to the treacherous FF Velazquez's actions water below the Canarsie Pier. demonstrated exceptional Firefighter Robert Velazquez, bravery, skill and initiative. He designated primary water resoperated below the Canarsie cuer, and Firefighter Andrew Pier in complete darkness, unSpadaro, the secondary rescutethered and against a strong er, were properly tethered with tide, and rescued a victim a 200-foot kernmantle rope who was significantly weighed connected to their personal Members of Ladder Co. 170, from left to right: Captain Cliff Zeilman, FF Robert down. In the face of uncertainflotation devices. Firefighters Velazquez, FF Leslie Wilson, FF Reginald Leveille and Lt. Tom Edwards. ty and danger, FF Velazquez’s Velazquez and Spadaro quickbravery became someone’s ly descended the 20-foot straight lifeline. His decision to disconnect ladder while holding the rescue torthe tether, placing himself at expedo. Upon entering the water, FF treme personal risk, was crucial to Velazquez encountered complete the victim's survival. Without these darkness and minimal clearance bedecisive actions, the victim would tween the water's surface and the have perished. For his effort and pier's underside, rendering visibility determination, Firefighter Robert nonexistent.

Velazquez is being awarded the Using a flashlight, FF Spadaro American Legion Fire Dept. Post identified the victim floating ap930/Mark M. Wohlfeld Memorial proximately 20 feet under the pier.

Medal.—BPJ Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Arthur J. Laufer Memorial Medal Firefighter Kevin T. Purdy Ladder Company 46

November 26, 2024, 0825 hours, Box 22-1802, Manhattan Appointed to the FDNY on January 14, 2013. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 22, Ladder Co. 13 and Engine Co. 81. Uncle Firefighter Richard Jahoda retired from Ladder Co. 58 in 2013. Great-uncle chief marine engineer retired from Marine 1 in 1994. Resides in Ossining, New York, with wife Alicia and children Millie and Wyatt.

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he duties of the roof position demand that an experienced, observant and determined member—capable of decisive action—be assigned. On November 27, 2024, Firefighter Kevin Purdy of Ladder Company 46 was assigned this important position. At 0828 hours, Ladder 46 responded second due to a fire located on the first floor in the C wing of a six-story, E-shaped, non-fireproof multiple dwelling.

The building’s unique construction characteristics and open interior doorways throughout allowed heavy toxic smoke and high heat to fill the entire C wing on every floor above the fire. FF Purdy ascended the A stairwell and coordinated the thorough, methodical and efficient completion of the roof duties with the first-due roof firefighter from Ladder Company 36.

Through radio transmissions reporting heavy fire and smoke conditions, and panicked occupants fleeing the building due to smoke on the floors above the fire, as well as the personal observation of heavy smoke billowing from the ventilated roof bulkhead five floors above the fire, FF Purdy astutely recognized the critical need for an immediate topfloor search. After communicating his intentions and without hesitation, FF Purdy descended the A stairwell to the top floor, where he began a primary search.

Upon reaching the smoke doors that separated the B and C wings of the top floor, FF Purdy encountered an extreme heat and zero-visibility condition. After donning his SCBA, he entered the abyss of the smoke-filled hallway without the protection of a hoseline. Blindly crawling with only his sense of touch, FF Purdy found an unconscious victim. He tied a girth hitch around the victim with his personal webbing and pulled the victim back to the relative safety of the top floor’s A stairwell.

After radioing the 10-45 code, FF Purdy summoned all his strength and unwavering determination to individually carry the victim down six flights of stairs to the building lobby.

Upon reaching the lobby, the victim started to regain spontaneous respirations and was handed off to members of FDNY EMS for definitive care.

In performing the search, rescue, removal and ultimate revival of the victim, FF Purdy demonstrated bravery, initiative, skill, selflessness and strength. His experience, keen observational skills and determination allowed the victim to make a full recovery. For his courage and professionalism, Firefighter Kevin Purdy of Ladder Company 46 is awarded the Arthur J.

Laufer Memorial Medal of valor, reflecting the highest traditions of both the FDNY and the roof firefighter position.—SM

Members from Tower Ladder Co. 46 post operations on November 26, 2024.

From left to right: Lt. Marcin Kalski, FF Joshua Delarosa, FF Kevin Purdy, FF Sean McArdle, FF Killian Kane and FF Dennis Almodovar.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Emerald Society Pipes and Drums Medal Lieutenant Michael P. McPartland Ladder Company 157

September 20, 2024, 0340 hours, Box 7-5-3937, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on June 11, 2006. Previously assigned to Ladder Company 44. Holds a bachelor's degree in business from Manhattan College. Recipient of a Class A (2024) and two Unit Citations (2021, 2022). Member of the FDNY’s Emerald Society, Holy Name Society, Emerald Society Pipes and Drums Color Guard and Bravest football team. Father, Deputy Chief Michael McPartland, retired from Division 1 in 2022; brother Lieutenant Joseph McPartland is assigned to Division 13. Resides in Oceanside, New York, with wife Jennifer and child Michael.

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n September 20, 2024, at 3:40 a.m., Engine Company 255 and Ladder Company 157 were dispatched to Brooklyn Box 3937 for a fire. While en route, dispatch notified the responding units that there were multiple calls for persons trapped on the second floor.

Upon arrival, the two companies were met with billowing smoke that filled the street, fire emanating from the second-floor windows and occupants who had escaped the flames and were screaming, “They’re upstairs! They’re upstairs!”

The inside team of Ladder 157 made light work in forcing their way through the entrance of the three-story private dwelling, only to be met with a heavy clutter condition consisting of boxes, furniture and miscellaneous items. Under the leadership of Lieutenant Michael McPartland, Firefighters Andrew Lind and James Devane battled their way through to the stairs, where they donned their facepieces and headed to the second floor.

Meanwhile, Engine 255 began their stretch of the initial hoseline.

On the second floor, the team was met by a new challenge of high heat that forced them to the floor. Lt. McPartland led the search through zero visibility, with fire overhead and without the protection of the hoseline. Irons Firefighter Devane assisted his lieutenant with the search while can Firefighter Lind headed down the hallway and attempted to contain the fire to its source.

Lt. McPartland entered the rear bedroom, where the obstacles did not let up. He maneuvered around more box-

es, furniture and clothes. He continued his search around the oversized bed and then went farther into the room until he came to an area between a dresser and desk. There, Lt. McPartland found a woman face down, unconscious and partially covered in debris.

The lieutenant, feeling the oppressive heat and knowing the woman was mere moments from death’s door, managed to quickly maneuver the victim’s limp body through the bedroom and to the stairs. Here, Lt. McPartland was assisted by FF Devane, who had just guided Engine 255 to the fire. Lt. McPartland and FF Devane took the victim down the stairs to safety.

Lt. McPartland returned to the fire floor, then headed to the third-floor attic, where FF Lind had discovered a second victim. At the bottom of the third-floor stairs, Lt. McPartland assisted FF Lind in removing that victim from the deadly environment, then led his inside team to the attic, where fire had aggressively extended.

Now, low on air and with vibra-alerts sounding, Lt. McPartland directed his inside team for their final search. After they found the fire, Lt. McPartland called for a line. Engine 255 then effectively repositioned and extinguished the flames.

Lieutenant Michael McPartland exhibited grit and composure in the highest traditions of the Department. His outstanding knowledge and leadership were evident.

He placed himself at unusual personal risk, saving lives in the process. For this, he is awarded the Emerald Society Pipes and Drums Medal.—JD

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Company Officers Association Medal Lieutenant Raed M. Khan Ladder Company 129

January 11, 2024, 1152 hours, Box 75-9421, Queens

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Appointed to the FDNY on June 29, 2015. Promoted to lieutenant in January 2025; currently assigned to Battalion 57. Previously assigned to Ladder 129. Holds a bachelor's degree in business from Brooklyn College. Recipient of a Unit Citation (2017). Resides in Hollis, New York, with wife Shaheen and children Maaira and Izaan Khan.

n January 11, 2024, Ladder Company 129 responded to search the remaining areas of the apartment. Firefighter first due to a report of a multiple dwelling fire near James Finnell, Ladder 129’s chauffeur, then requested perQueens Box 9421. When Ladder 129 arrived at the mission to VEIS (vent, enter, isolate and search) the apartintersection, there were no apparent signs of a fire. Members ment. Unable to contain the growing fire, Captain Agruso noticed that workers on scaffolding were pointing to the fire denied the request to await a charged hoseline. building. At that time, a civilMeanwhile, FF Khan ian ran from around the corner searched the first bedroom, and pointed up at the building, then moved into the hallway stating the apartment number to make his way to the second of the fire. Engine Company bedroom. In the moderately 273 then repositioned their apcluttered hallway, he started paratus to Cherry Avenue while clearing items and felt what he Ladder 129 members proceedinitially thought was a bag of ed on foot around the corner clothing. Upon further inspecand headed up to the reported tion, he discovered an unconfire apartment. scious victim; he transmitted Upon entering the fire floor, the 10-45 and proceeded to reLadder 129’s inside team—Capmove the victim from the now tain Paul Agruso, then-Firefightuntenable hallway. er Raed Khan (forcible entry, With conditions rapidly dewho has since been promoted teriorating, FF Khan attemptto lieutenant) and Firefighter ed to take hold of the victim, Dominick Nuzzi (can)—were Members of Ladder Co. 129 at Queens Box 9421, January 11, 2024. From which was challenging due to met with a smoke condition in left to right: Captain Paul Agruso, FF James Finnell, FF Raed Khan, FF the victim’s injuries. Using all his the hallway. After confirming Dominic Nuzzi, FF Steven White and FF Christopher Kocovic (detailed from strength, FF Khan repositioned E-48). (Photo by FirstOnScenePhotos) that the door to the fire apartthe victim and secured his grip ment was locked, FF Khan beon the unresponsive man. He gan forcing the door. As he was able to remove the victim, began to gap the door, Ladder shielding him through the fire, 129 members noticed smoke into the public hallway and to pushing under pressure. After a the stairs. He handed the victim brief struggle overcoming multo awaiting members, who pertiple locks and an angle iron, formed life-saving treatment the team forced the door and once outside the building. were met with heavy smoke and Firefighter Khan displayed a high-heat condition. Captain courage and determination unAgruso notified Battalion 52 to der zero visibility, in high heat transmit the 10-75 and called and without the protection of a Lieutenant Shaun Scheurer of handline. For his actions, which Engine 273 to start a line. are in the highest traditions of In zero visibility, Captain the FDNY and Ladder 129, FF Agruso found fire in the living Khan is being honored today room and searched the area with the Company Officers Aswhile directing his inside team sociation Medal.—NG Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Edith B. Goldman Medal Firefighter Joseph A. Tenteromano Ladder Company 172

June 25, 2024, 0808 hours, Box 75-2917, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on November 6, 2023. Holds a bachelor's degree in management from Empire State University. Served in the U.S. Air Force and currently serves in the U.S. Air Force Reserve. Member of FDNY Columbia Association. Father, Firefighter Michael Tenteromano, retired from Engine Co. 165 in 2018. Resides on Staten Island.

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n the morning of June 22, 2024, Ladder Company 172 responded first due to a fire in a private dwelling at Brooklyn Box 2917. While en route, the dispatcher notified responding units that they were receiving numerous calls. Upon arrival, heavy black smoke was seen issuing from a first-floor window of a two-story, semi-attached private dwelling, prompting Engine Company 330 to transmit a 10-75.

While members of Engine 330 stretched a handline, members of Ladder 172’s inside team—Lieutenant Vincent Cavalieri, Firefighter Michael Cusimano (irons) and Probationary Firefighter Joseph Tenteromano (can)—made their way into the building and were informed by a neighbor that an elderly female resided on the first floor. Finding the front door locked, the team immediately began to force entry into the residence.

After gaining access, the team was met with heavy smoke and zero visibility. Knowing the dangers that faced the elderly resident, the members chose to enter without the protection of a hoseline. They were immediately confronted with high heat that forced them to the floor as they attempted to locate the fire.

Approximately 15 feet into the apartment, Lt. Cavalieri used the thermal imaging camera to confirm that the fire was in a room off the hallway. Due to the rapidly deteriorating conditions, and to ensure that water was put on the fire quickly, Lt. Cavalieri returned to the entrance to notify Engine 330 of the fire's exact location. FF Cusimano informed FF Tentero-

mano that he was going to conduct a right-hand search.

Knowing that time was of the essence and a civilian’s life was on the line, FF Tenteromano took the initiative to begin a left-hand search. He passed the fire room and continued deeper into the apartment under extreme conditions, still without the protection of a hoseline.

In zero visibility, through feeling alone, he recognized he had made it to the kitchen and called out his location to keep in verbal contact with the rest of Ladder 172. After crawling approximately 20 feet, FF Tenteromano located the lifeless body of the elderly resident. Realizing her only chance for survival was immediate removal, he requested assistance from the other members of Ladder 172. Meanwhile, he took the initiative to secure his nylon webbing around the victim to begin her removal. Lt. Cavalieri transmitted the location of the 10-45 and the need for a CFR engine. FF Tenteromano pulled the victim back through the heavy smoke and heat, toward the front door of the apartment, while Engine 330 moved in to knock down the fire. FF Cusimano assisted FF Tenteromano in bringing the victim to the street, where Engine Company 250 immediately began life-saving medical care before transferring her to EMS. Ladder 172 reentered the fire building to continue their searches and fire operations.

For his initiative and unwavering bravery, Probationary Firefighter Joseph Tenteromano is awarded the Edith B. Goldman Medal.—NLG

Members of Ladder Co. 172 after operating at Brooklyn Box 75-2917, June 25, 2024.

From left to right: FF Michael Cusimano, Lt. Vincent Cavalieri, FF Joseph Tenteromano, FF Kyle McLoughlin, FF Dennis Hepworth and FF Chris Leigh.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

49

Lieutenant Kirby McElhearn Medal EMT Jeremy J. Quinones Public Safety Answering Center 1

December 15, 2024, 1203 hours - CAD 2087; 1946 hours - CAD 4086; 2320 hours - CAD 4952 Appointed to the FDNY on May 22, 2022. Previously assigned to Station 10 in Harlem. Resides on Staten Island.

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n December 15, 2024, Assignment Receiving Dispatcher EMT Jeremy Quinones played a critical role in saving the lives of three young children by responding to three separate pediatric medical emergency calls in a single shift. His ability to remain calm under pressure and communicate life-saving instructions with clarity was significant in each case. Through his precise guidance, he ensured that family members could administer crucial first-aid measures, ultimately preserving the lives of three children.

The first emergency occurred just one minute into his shift. EMT Quinones answered a distressed call from a panicked father whose infant son had turned blue. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, he swiftly provided the father with clear and firm instructions, guiding him step by step on how to open the child’s airway and perform CPR. His ability to stay composed and give precise directions allowed the parents to take immediate action, significantly improving the child’s chances of survival before emergency responders arrived on the scene.

Later in his shift another call came in, this time concerning a baby who was also turning blue. Once again, EMT Quinones

relied on his extensive training and experience to instruct the caregiver on how to properly position the baby to open the airway. This seemingly simple yet vital technique enabled the baby to resume normal breathing, with the color returning to his face before the ambulance reached the location. Without EMT Quinones’ quick thinking and expert guidance, the situation could have escalated into a fatal emergency.

As his shift progressed, EMT Quinones received a final emergency call from a frantic grandmother. Her newborn grandson was choking and struggling to breathe. Understanding the fear and panic in her voice, he immediately worked to calm her while providing crucial instructions on how to clear the baby’s airway. His soothing yet authoritative demeanor helped her focus on the necessary steps to assist the infant. Several NYPD officers then arrived at the scene and continued performing chest thrusts until the baby finally began breathing again.

Dispatchers are often unseen heroes in emergency response teams, and EMT Quinones' work on this shift is a testament to the vital role they play in saving lives. Had it not been for EMT Quinones' calm, decisive guidance, three children under the age of two may not have survived that day. His ability to provide life-saving instructions under intense pressure highlights his exceptional skills as a dispatcher and his dedication to his duty. Through his extraordinary efforts, EMT Quinones ensured that three families did not have to endure the unimaginable loss of a child. His ability to think quickly, communicate effectively and provide reassurance in high-stress situations made all the difference. EMT Jeremy Quinones' performance on December 15, 2024, serves as an inspiring example of how skilled emergency dispatchers can profoundly impact the lives of those they serve, and for this, he is awarded the Lieutenant Kirby McElhearn Medal.—GA EMT Quinones on the job as an assignment recieving dispatcher at PSAC 1.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

50

Chief Joseph B. Martin Medal Firefighter Bryan Anderson Engine Company 247

February 11, 2024, 2036 hours, Box 22-2691, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on December 11, 2017. Recipient of four Pre-Hospital Saves (2019, 2021 [2], 2023) and a Unit Citation (2024). Resides on Staten Island with wife Kaila and children Jordan, Brody, Myles and Nash.

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n February 11, 2024, burning!" and for members Engine Company 247 of Engine 247 to "hit it." Recwas dispatched to a ognizing that the situation was three-story multiple dwelling for dire, FF Anderson pushed his fire on the first floor. Upon arway forward with the handline rival, the company encountered through punishing heat, smoke heavy flames issuing out of the and flame. Ladder 148’s can rear windows on the exposure 4 and irons firefighters urgentside. After transmitting the 10ly withdrew from the fire area, 75, Lieutenant Louis Esposito with one member's bunker coat encountered a young boy crying and helmet on fire. FF Anderthat his father was trapped inside. son directed the hose stream With no ladder company yet on on him to extinguish the flames. scene, Lt. Esposito entered the He then continued to rapidly building to initiate a search. and aggressively push into the Knowing that their officer was Fire showing at Brooklyn Box 2691 after the flashover. The fire started in apartment in an effort to save rear bedroom (rear window). The smaller window in front is where the inside the fire apartment in im- the the lives of the trapped memofficers were located. (Photo courtesy of boropark24/Dovid Y. Jaroslawicz) mediate need of an operating bers. hoseline, Firefighter Bryan AnAs he endured grueling conderson (nozzle), Firefighter Joditions while pushing the line seph Provitera (backup) and Firedeeper into the apartment, FF Anfighter Benny Chen (door) quickly derson saw Lt. Esposito crouched stretched a line to the door and just ahead. FF Chen assisted his inbegan masking up. FF Anderson jured lieutenant and brought him called for water, and as the nozzle behind the hoseline. They continued team bled the line, Ladder Comto penetrate deeper into the apartpany 148 arrived, masked up and ment and reached the kitchen, where entered the fire building to begin Ladder 148's officer was found in the their search. prone position, injured, in a room As Engine 247 advanced into that was fully involved in fire. the fire building, they were imme- Members of Engine 247 who operated at Brooklyn Box 2691, With the rest of the apartment February 11, 2024. From left to right: Lt. Louis Esposito, FF Bryan diately confronted with thick black Anderson, FF Joseph Provitera, FF Banny Chen, FM Joseph still on fire, FF Anderson directed smoke and tremendous heat in the Conforti (promoted September 2024) and FF Gregory Ruocco the stream back toward the aparthallway. FF Anderson got down low (L-18, not pictured). ment door, clearing the escape path as they approached the apartment door and could see fire for Ladder 148’s officer. He then directed FF Provitera to assist ahead. Suddenly, the surrounding environment reached igni- the officer out of the fire apartment. FF Anderson held his potion temperature, and a flashover occurred. FF Anderson was sition until the backup firefighter returned, at which time he blown back by the intense heat and flame now consuming the completed the knockdown of the rest of the apartment. apartment and hallway.

FF Anderson’s decisive actions in extreme conditions directly Knowing Lt. Esposito and Ladder 148’s inside team were resulted in aiding a missing resident (who escaped the fire) and engulfed in fire, FF Anderson immediately opened the line. FDNY members, as well as the extinguishment of challenging Ladder 148’s officer pressed his emergency alert button (EAB) fire. For his unrelenting commitment and aggressive actions at and issued a mayday, yelling, "Open the line! Open the line!" A this life-threatening two-alarm fire, Firefighter Bryan Anderson moment later, Lt. Esposito transmitted, "We're burning! We're is being awarded the Chief Joseph B. Martin Medal. —KLE Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Police Honor Legion Medal Firefighter Timothy J. Smith Ladder Company 105

February 4, 2024, 1602 hours, Box 75-0570, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on December 12, 2016. Holds an associate degree in sociology from College of Staten Island. Recipient of a Unit Citation. Father, Deputy Chief David Smith, retired from Division 8 in 2015.

Cousin Deputy Chief Josh Smith is assigned to Division 1. Resides on Staten Island with wife Kaitlin and children Kayleigh and Madylin.

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n Sunday, February 4, 2024, at 1600 hours, Ladder Company 105 responded first due to a report of fire on the first floor of a six-story fireproof multiple dwelling. Engine Company 226 arrived right before Ladder 105 and transmitted the 10-75 for fire in an apartment on the first floor. Upon arrival, the members of Ladder 105 observed heavy fire and thick black smoke coming from the windows on the exposure 2 side of the building. As they made their way toward the front entrance, people were yelling that there were multiple people trapped inside the fire apartment.

The members of Ladder 105’s inside team—Lieutenant Terrence Sweeney, Firefighters Timothy Smith (irons) and Gary Granberg (can)—knew they had to act quickly. When the team arrived at the door of the fire apartment, Lieutenant Schweickert of Engine Company 226 reported the door was partially opened—revealing thick, acrid smoke—and that something was blocking it from opening more than a few inches.

Lt. Sweeney was able to squeeze past the partially open door and into the apartment. Once inside, Lt. Sweeney was met with high heat conditions, zero visibility and a medium clutter condition. He located an unconscious adult behind the front door. With the aid of FF Granberg, the victim was removed from the fire apartment and handed off to Engine Company 219 members for immediate care. A second unconscious victim was found a few feet away from the entrance by FF Granberg. Lt Sweeney and FF Granberg worked together to remove the second unconscious adult.

With two victims already found and removed near the front entrance, FF Smith realized there might be other unconscious occupants farther into the apartment. Without the protection of a hoseline and encountering high heat, zero visibility and medium clutter conditions throughout the apartment, FF Smith pressed on and performed a right-hand search. FF Smith's search led him into the apartment's kitchen, where he found a third unconscious victim.

FF Smith transmitted a 10-45 and began to pull the unconscious adult toward the front door of the apartment. FF Smith was met in the public hallway by Firefighter Harry Gumb of Squad 1, who assisted him in transferring the victim to members of Engine 219. FF Smith then returned to the fire apartment to complete his primary search. Upon returning to the kitchen, he found a fourth victim, a young child, and immediately transmitted a 10-45. He took hold of the child and moved quickly through medium clutter and zero visibility and out into the hallway. FF Smith realized that the child needed immediate care. He brought the child outside the fire building and began life-saving treatment using a pocket face mask that he carried in his bunker coat. The young child regained a pulse, was transported to the hospital and survived.

Firefighter Timothy Smith’s actions were in the highest traditions of the FDNY and Ladder Company 105, and he is being awarded Left: Kitchen where FF Timothy Smith (L-105) found two victims, including a small child, at Brooklyn Box 0570, February 4, 2024. Right: Bedroom where the fire started. (Photo by FDNY Bureau of Fire Investigation) the Police Honor Legion Medal.—NG Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Firefighter David J. DeFranco Medal Lieutenant Scott J. Hamelburg Ladder Company 173

August 25, 2024, Box 2034, 1546 hours, Queens Appointed to the FDNY on June 11, 2006. Promoted to lieutenant after the incident in October 2024.

Currently assigned to Battalion 33. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 173, Engine Co. 329, Engine Co. 290 and Ladder 163. Recipient of a Class 3 (2007), the Henry D. Brookman Medal (2007), a Pre-Hospital Save (2014) and a Unit Citation (2017). Member of the FDNY Steuben Association and the PSS Rope Unit. Brother Firefighter Daniel Hamelburg is assigned to Ladder Co. 35. Resides in Long Beach, New York, with wife Jeannine and children Koa and Kailani.

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n a late summer afternoon in August, at 3:45 p.m., tation device and tied himself up using the bowline on a bight Ladder Company 173 was dispatched to a “per- and slippery hitch. He got in position to be lowered by FF son in the water” response. While traveling south- Mohan, who donned the Atlas life belt. FF Hamelburg placed bound on the North Channel Bridge toward the reported a flotation device over his shoulder and was lowered down to location of the bridge’s souththe kayakers. east side, Ladder 173 was Once he reached them, FF flagged down approximately Hamelburg secured the flotamid-span by a fisherman. The tion device around the child. members raced to the side Using rope from the kayaks, of the bridge, where underhe secured them together to neath, two kayakers clung to prevent them from separata rope thrown to them by aning. FF Hamelburg treaded other fisherman from above. water and held onto the faThen-Firefighter Scott Hamelther’s kayak as they waited for burg, along with Firefighters a rescue boat to arrive.

Brendan Mohan, Jonathan NYPD harbor boat Adam Labriola (L-143, backup resarrived, and FF Hamelburg cue swimmer) and Christoassisted the child and father pher Freitag (E-58, spotter), in safely boarding the vessel. proceeded to the west side FF Hamelburg then boardof the bridge and located the ed the boat and continued two kayaks, one occupied to assess and treat both vicby a man and the other his tims. Once on land, they were young son. transferred to EMS for further Ladder 173 needed to act Members of Ladder Co. 173 who operated at the rescue on the North Channel treatment and transportation quickly due to the water con- Bridge, from left to right: Capt. Ian Perdikou, FF Joseph Labarba, FF Scott to the hospital. and FF Brendan Mohan (now Engine 73; was on his one-year ditions and high winds. The fa- Hamelburg In their endorsement of rotation with L-173 at the time of the rescue). Not pictured are detailed ther also appeared to be in dis- members FF Jonathan Labriola (L-143) and FF Christopher Freitag (E-58).

FF Hamelburg, his chiefs tress and losing his grip noted that FF Hamelon his son’s boat, which burg’s vast maritime was taking on water. experience—gained as Rescue boats had yet both lifeguard and avid to arrive, so Ladder 173 surfer—enabled him to was the only response successfully carry out unit on scene. The disthe rescue of the father tance from the bridge and his young son. The to the water was about Department is proud 50 feet. FF Hamelburg to award Firefighter advised Captain Vincent Scott Hamelburg the Perdikou that the best Firefighter David J. Deaccess to the victims was Franco Medal for his acto be lowered via rope. tions, which exemplify With assistance from the the highest traditions of team, FF Hamelburg the FDNY.—AP donned his personal floFire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Lieutenant James E. Zahn Lieutenant Peter L. Troiano Memorial Medal Lieutenant Richard C. Cannon Ladder Company 148

May 4, 2024, 0303 Hours, Box 8622, Belt Parkway Eastbound at Bay Parkway, Brooklyn

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Appointed to the FDNY on July 15, 2001. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 11 (2001-2005), Engine Co. 310 (20052011), Ladder Co. 174 (2011-2014) as a firefighter, and Engine Co. 282 (2014-2019) as a lieutenant. Recipient of seven Pre-Hospital Saves, two Service Rating Bs (2008, 2009) and three Unit Citations (2017, 2018, 2022). Member of the FDNY’s Columbia Association, Emerald Society, Holy Name Society and Fire Family Transport Foundation.

Cousins Nicholas Bowerman and James Bowerman are assigned to Engine Co. 63 and Ladder Co. 174, respectively.

Resides in Breezy Point, New York, with wife Lauren and children William and Samantha.

n the early morning hours of May 4, 2024, eight-year-old William Cannon witnessed firsthand what it means to live a life of service in the FDNY. From the window of the family car, he watched his father—Lieutenant Richard Cannon of Ladder Company 148—save another man’s life. His family has always known that he is willing to help anyone who needs it, anywhere and at any time.

Lt. Cannon was driving eastbound on the Belt Parkway, coming home with his family from a party. Suddenly, two cars sped past them at an extremely high rate of speed, causing the family’s car to sway as the two vehicles rocketed past.

Approximately 20 seconds later, Lt. Cannon came upon a dust cloud and smoke. The same two vehicles had been involved in a serious collision. One vehicle, a blue Corvette, was severely damaged and on fire. The second vehicle, a black BMW, had severe front-end damage and was smoking.

Lt. Cannon quickly positioned his family’s car out of danger and called the Brooklyn dispatcher for assistance. Without hesitation, he entered the high-speed roadway with traffic still moving past the collision to get to the victims. Lt. Cannon knew he had to act quickly in this dangerous and dynamic scene.

He went directly to the driver’s-side door, but it was so damaged it could not be opened. Lt. Cannon then moved to the passenger-side door and was able to open

it. He made entry into the car as fire completely engulfed the rear of the vehicle. As he reached over the console and unbuckled the driver’s seatbelt, the rear window began to fail from the heat of the fire. The driver was unconscious, which made moving him over the center console extremely difficult. The first attempt to pull him out of the car resulted in pulling off his sweatshirt. Lt. Cannon’s experience in dealing with high-pressure situations allowed him to quickly reassess and decide that he needed to remove the driver in a series of steps. First, he pulled the victim's upper body over the console and laid him over the passenger seat. Then he pulled the victim's waist and legs over the console. And finally, he pulled the victim completely out of the burning vehicle. Just as Lt. Cannon removed the victim from the car, the rear window failed, and the inside of the car began to burn.

At this point, an off-duty EMT from Maimonides Medical Center arrived and offered to help Lt. Cannon. Together they pulled the victim from the fire, off the highway and onto the grass on the side of the road, then began victim assessment.

Lt. Cannon stayed with the victim and helped render care while Engine 253 extinguished the vehicle fires.

Lt. Cannon is a true role model and inspiration to those who work with him and a mentor to those under his leadership. His quick response and actions at the scene of a multicar accident with a person trapped and a rapidly extending car fire saved the driver’s life. This selfless act of heroism is the epitome of what it means to be a member of the Fire Department of the City of New York.

For his actions, Lieutenant Richard Cannon is being awarded the Lieutenant James E. Zahn/Lieutenant Peter L. Troiano MemoriPhoto on left: Lt. Richard Cannon (left) pulls the victim from his burning car, assisted by an off-duty EMT (right) just before the al Medal.—MD vehicle is completely engulfed in flames. (Photos by Lauren Cannon)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

54

Deputy Commissioner Christine R. Godek Medal July 4, 2024, 0433 hours, Box 75-8994, Queens

Appointed to the FDNY on May 31, 2005. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 15.

Resides in Oceanside, New York, with wife Stacey and children Bradyn and Teegan.

Appointed to the FDNY on December 5, 2004. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 50.

Recipient of a Unit Citation (2024). Member of the FDNY Columbia Association. Father, Fire Marshal Louis Rocco, retired from BFI Bronx Base.

Father to Matthew and Abbie. Resides in Mahopac, New York.

Fire Marshal

Fire Marshal

David Leibowitz

Matthew L. Rocco

BFI Special Investigations Unit

BFI Citywide North Command

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n the early morning hours of July 4, 2024, FDNY units re- known fires. During the process, the fire marshals uncovered sponded to two separate fires in the South Richmond Hill a third, previously unreported vehicle fire that had occurred section of Queens. The first involved a fully engulfed ve- around 4:34 a.m. that same morning. Surveillance footage hicle fire that spread to an adjacent car, causing extensive showed the same suspect breaking into a vehicle, stealing damage to both. Shortly afterward, a second and more se- items, setting it on fire and fleeing. This development linked rious fire erupted at a nearby private dwelling. At the time, the individual to three separate incidents of arson. multiple occupants—including two young children—were Fire Marshals Rocco and Leibowitz continued tracking asleep inside. While most escaped the intense heat and the suspect on surveillance footage throughout the neighsmoke unharmed, two adults were transported to the hospi- borhood. He was first seen walking to the location of the tal after suffering severe burns and smoke inhalation, which initial vehicle fire, where he deliberately ignited the car. He required surgery in treatment of their injuries. then proceeded on foot to the nearby residence, entered The Bureau of Fire Investigation (BFI) promptly deployed the property via the side driveway and remained there for members of the Citywide North Command. Supervising several minutes before fleeing just before the fire was disFire Marshal Richard Farci, Fire Marshal Matthew Rocco covered. The suspect was later seen heading to the third and Fire Marshal Robert Santandrea responded to conduct fire location, where he again broke into a vehicle and set it a forensic examination of both fire scenes. As preliminary ablaze. Afterward, surveillance captured him walking back findings began to surface, members to his known residence. of the BFI Special Investigations Unit With the arsonist positively identified, (SIU) became involved in the case.

SFM Meagher organized an arrest plan.

SIU members Supervising Fire MarFollowing the successful apprehension of shal Philip Meagher and Fire Marshal this violent felony offender, Fire Marshals David Leibowitz were briefed by Fire Rocco and Leibowitz worked closely with Marshal Rocco on all details of the the Queens District Attorney’s Office to investigation. The investigators were support a series of charges, including directed to conduct further intermultiple counts of arson and reckless enviews, gather evidence and initiate a dangerment. comprehensive video canvass of the This complex investigation and sucsurrounding area. cessful prosecution were the result of Following a detailed review of coldedicated, skilled work by these memlected evidence and footage, invesbers. Their tireless efforts exemplify the tigators determined both fires were highest traditions of the Bureau of Fire intentionally set and likely connectInvestigation and the FDNY. In recoged. Over the following weeks, FM nition of their outstanding commitment Rocco and FM Leibowitz undertook and exceptional investigative perforan exhaustive video canvass across mance, Fire Marshal Matthew Rocco and the neighborhood. Through meticuFire Marshal David Leibowitz are awardThe fire originated in the bath/storage room and spread lous analysis, a person of interest was to the basement living room, where several residents ed the Deputy Commissioner Christine identified in connection with the two slept. (Photo by FDNY Bureau of Fire Investigation) R. Godek Medal.—MJK Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Probationary Firefighter Thomas A. Wylie Medal Firefighter Thomas J. Canzoneri Ladder Company 134

April 28, 2024, 0736 hours, Box 75-1137, Queens Appointed to the FDNY on November 6, 2023. Holds a bachelor's degree in sociology from SUNY University at Albany. Father, Firefighter Robert Canzoneri, retired from Ladder Co. 173 in 2008. Resides in Smithtown, New York, with fiancée Samantha.

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n the fire service, there is nothing hallway through the scorching heat, in more adrenaline-inducing than rezero visibility, to reach the front bedsponding to a reported fire, hearing room. They quickly entered and closed the dispatcher announce, “we are rethe door behind them. FF Canzoneri ceiving multiple calls” or that “there conducted a rapid search of the bedare reports of people trapped.” These room and discovered a disoriented statements can heighten the stress of male victim at floor level. any firefighter regardless of their expeReturning to the compromised rience level. Now, imagine it’s the first hallway to remove the victim was not fire of your career. an option now that the fire had grown.

On the morning of April 24, 2024, The front window was their best opat 7:36 a.m., Ladder Company 134 tion. The inside team verbally comwas dispatched to Far Rockaway for a municated with FF Schiavi (LCC) to reported fire. With an off-duty memposition the aerial ladder for victim reber on scene reporting a working fire moval. FF Schiavi ascended the ladder and a large column of smoke rising FF Canzoneri and FF Schiavi work to pass the victim through and assisted FF Canzoneri in removabove the rooftops, it was obvious the window of the fire apartment and down the aerial ladder. ing the installed child gates. Together, that they were going to work. The 10they carefully assisted the victim onto 75 was transmitted by Ladder 134 for a fire on the third floor the ladder and descended to street level, where immediate of the two-family private dwelling. medical care was provided by EMS. Probationary Firefighter Thomas Canzoneri (forcible entry) Performing well under extreme conditions requires excelexited the apparatus and quickly entered the fire building with lent training, dedication and the desire to perform your job his officer, Lieutenant Michael Pisciotta, and Firefighter Patrick at the highest level. With only two months in the firehouse, Goldberg (can). Upon entering, they encountered occupants that morning FF Canzoneri displayed the precision and skill of fleeing from the structure, and the off-duty member stated that someone with years of experience and saved another man’s a civilian was trapped in the front bedroom on the third floor. life. For his efforts, Firefighter Thomas Canzoneri is awarded Proceeding with a greater sense of urgency, they made their the Probationary Firefighter Thomas A. Wylie Medal.—JC way to the fire floor and were met with high heat and fire at the landing.

The door to the fire room had burned away, and there was no way to confine the expanding fire from the rest of the third floor.

At this time, Ladder 134’s chauffeur, Firefighter Benjamin Schiavi, transmitted that a civilian had appeared at the front window on the third floor, gasping for air. There was no time to wait for the handline—the inside team had to make their move.

They donned their SCBAs and proceeded to make their orderly search Members of Ladder Co. 134 at Box 75-1137, Queens, from left for victims. Lieutenant Pisciotta and to right: FF Keith McDonnell, Lt. Michael Pisciotta, FF Benjamin Schiavi, FF Thomas Canzoneri, FF Patrick Goldberg and FF Peter FF Canzoneri made a push down the Abbondondolo.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

56

Shelly Rothman Memorial Medal Captain George M. Polito Ladder Company 169

July 2, 2024, 0358 hours, Box 75-3619, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on July 5, 1992. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 253, Engine Co. 255, Ladder Co. 157 and Engine Co. 321. Member of the FDNY Columbia Association. Father, Firefighter George Polito, retired from Engine 310 in 1977 and is now deceased. He resides in Brooklyn with his wife, Alison, and has four children: Amanda, Emily, Brooke and Jake.

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n the morning of July 2, 2024, at 0358 hours, Ladder Company 169 received an alarm for Box 3619 in Brooklyn, reporting fire in a four-story, 100- by 100-foot multiple dwelling. En route to the box, the Brooklyn Communications Office communicated to responding units that they were receiving reports of a person trapped in the cellar.

Upon arrival Ladder 169, led by Captain George Polito, was met with smoke issuing from the cellar windows on the exposure 4 side of the fire building. Residents also informed Captain Polito that there was a person trapped in the cellar. Ladder 169’s inside team proceeded quickly to the cellar entrance on exposure 4. Captain Polito then ordered Firefighter Kirally Hajnoczi (irons) and Firefighter Nicholas Battaglia (can) to force the door to gain access. After forcing the door, the members were met with a heavy smoke condition and limited visibility. Captain Polito began a right-hand search, during which he realized they were dealing with serious clutter conditions where members could easily get turned around. The cellar was made up of a series of large, cluttered areas used for personal storage, maintenance supplies and tools, which caused members to become entangled and hampered their search.

At this point, the team also encountered high heat and zero visibility. After searching about 25 feet in, they found the fire in the center of the B wing. Captain Polito discovered three e-bikes burning in an uncompartmented area of the basement.

He ordered FF Battaglia to remain by the burning bikes in order to alert Engine Company 246 of the location of the fire. While

FF Hajnoczi searched left, Captain Polito continued to the right, past the uncontrolled fire and into the rear of the cellar.

As Captain Polito pushed farther into the cluttered cellar, he found a door that led to living quarters and another large, uncompartmented area. He pushed deeper—another 30 feet—and heard a victim calling for help. Captain Polito discovered the victim in a bathroom, gasping for air; he transmitted the 10-45 and gave his location. Removal would be challenging, as they were now about 100 feet into the cellar with little visibility. The windows had been sealed with cinder blocks, leaving no way for ventilation or exit in the area.

Captain Polito used his tool to make a noise beacon, directing FF Battaglia and FF Hajnoczi to his location.

With assistance from his inside team, Captain Polito was able to guide the victim through the mazelike conditions of the burning cellar and remove the victim to the street, where he was treated and transported to the hospital by EMS. The effort and teamwork displayed at this fire undoubtedly saved a man’s life. For his initiative, bravery and resolve to pass an extending fire within a challenging cellar environment to search Members at Brooklyn Box 75-3619 on July 2, 2024. From left to right: FF Nicholas Battaglia (L169), FF Joseph Roggenkamp (L-169), Captain George Polito (L-169), FF Kiraly Hajnoczi (L-169), FF for human life, Captain George Polito is awarded Thomas Wilkenson (E-246), FF Nicholas Parikas (E-246), Lt. John Militano (E-246), FF Will Whelan the Shelly Rothman Memorial Medal Medal.—SI (E-246), FF Greg Beehler (L-169) and FF Dan Palmieri (L-169).

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Jack Pintchik Medal December 4, 2024, 0137 hours, CAD 2552, Bronx

Appointed to the FDNY on January 29, 2024. Brother EMT Valentino Gotay retired in 2023 from the Queens Tactical Response Group.

Resides in Coram, New York.

Appointed to the FDNY on September 30, 2019.

Previously assigned to the Bronx Tactical Response Group. Holds an associate degree in criminal justice from Westchester Community College.

Recipient of a Unit of the Month and Pre-Hospital Save. Resides in Carmel, New York, with wife Erin.

EMT Giovanni V. Gotay

F

EMT Maxwell S. Senger

Station 18

Station 18

DNY EMTs bravely respond to 1.6 million medical emer- to recover the taser and return it to the officer, who then gencies each year. They never know what kind of call deployed it. they’re walking into or what circumstances will unfold For putting their safety at risk while ensuring the safety of when they arrive on scene. others, EMT Giovanni Gotay and EMT Maxwell Senger are On Wednesday, December 4, 2024, Station 18’s EMT presented the Jack Pintchik Medal.—CB Giovanni Gotay and EMT Maxwell Senger were working in the Bronx when they received a call for an emotionally disturbed individual. NYPD officers were on scene and made an attempt to handcuff the individual, who became violent following this attempt.

One of the officers attempted to discharge a taser to subdue the individual, but the individual grabbed the taser and violently pulled it out of the officer’s hand.

EMT Gotay and EMT Senger knew this was a dangerous situation for themselves, the officers and the patient, and they knew they had to step in to help. Both EMTs attempted to take the taser back from the patient, putting themselves in harm’s way to ensure the safety of the other people on scene. The patient began to assault them, punching and hitting them both in the head before EMTs EMT Giovanni Gotay (left) and EMT Maxwell Senger (right) placed themselves in harm's way to aid NYPD officers with an Gotay and Senger were able emotionally disturbed patient in the Bronx.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Captain Alison Russo North Star Medal Lieutenant Kathleen E. Wood Station 26

October 6, 2024, 0853 hours, CAD 1621 Appointed to the FDNY on September 23, 2013. Previously assigned to Station 39, Station 44, Station 59, Station 31, Station 47 and Station 26. Attended Nassau Community College. Is a paramedic and Haz-Tac technician. Recipient of two Unit Citations (2015, 2016), multiple Pre-Hospital Saves and Officer of the Quarter (2024 Q3). Father, Firefighter Michael A. Wood Sr., retired in 2022 from Squad Co. 288. Resides in Freeport, New York.

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n October 6, 2024, Lieutenant Kathmembers from the apartment and issued clear, leen Wood responded to a 10-13 concise orders for the remaining personnel call—request for immediate poto retreat to safety. She simultaneously enlice assistance—transmitted for another gaged the assailant’s girlfriend, seeking FDNY EMS officer who was being assaultto deescalate the situation and prevent ed. Upon arrival at the scene, Lt. Wood further violence. Lt. Wood’s actions were and Lieutenant Alexandru Mihailescu critical in preventing the escalation of met the injured officer, who was emergthe threat and ensuring the safety of her ing from the apartment dazed, mottled team. She successfully removed all EMS and with visible strangulation marks on his personnel from the apartment and led neck. The officer’s condition indicated that them to the street level, securing them from he had been assaulted with extreme violence. further harm.

Lt. Wood quickly assessed the situation, learnLt. Wood’s actions were nothing short of heroing that the crews of 17X2 ic. By swiftly removing her and 19C2 were still inside team from imminent danthe apartment trying to ger, she demonstrated a subdue the assailant, who profound sense of duty and was reportedly under the selflessness. Her decisive influence and noncomplileadership ensured that no ant with behavioral medfurther harm came to the ications. There was also a personnel on scene. Upon report of a firearm present the arrival of NYPD ESU, in the apartment. UnderLt. Wood led the way back standing the immediate inside, where they assisted danger posed to the memthe officers in sedating the bers, Lt. Wood rushed assailant. Two knives and a inside the apartment to handgun were recovered find the four members from the assailant, further struggling with an irate inhighlighting the gravity of dividual. She immediately the threat. realized that the struggling Lt. Wood's ability to assailant could not be safethink critically under exly contained with the availtreme pressure, her effecable personnel and that tive communication and there was a risk of the fireher physical intervention arm being accessed. were instrumental in savWith her members runing lives and maintaining ning high on adrenaline the safety and integrity of and unable to hear comthe operation. For these mands, Lt. Wood came reasons, Lieutenant Kathdirectly into their space. leen E. Wood is the 2025 Demonstrating exceptionrecipient of the Captain al courage, she physically Lt. Kathleen Wood (right) responded to a 10-13 call where FDNY EMS crews, including Alison Russo North Star removed some of the EMS Lt. Justin O’Grady (left), requested police assistance. (Photo by Captain Kyra King) Medal.—NP Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Dr. Sheldon Jacobson Award Paramedic Franklin Kupferberg Station 4

Appointed to the FDNY on March 18, 1985. Previously assigned to Stations 8, 10, 14 and 16. Holds a bachelor's degree in English from Columbia University. Recipient of a Meritorious Act. Resides in Manhattan.

P

aramedic Franklin Kupferberg was selected for his exceptional and enduring service to the people of New York City. With more than four decades of experience, Paramedic Kupferberg has built a career defined by clinical excellence, mentorship, compassion and quiet leadership.

Paramedic Kupferberg graduated from Columbia University in 1980 and initially worked as a paralegal. Drawn to public service, he trained as an EMT just three years later and began his journey in emergency medical services with a private ambulance company. In 1982, Frank completed his paramedic training at the St. Vincent’s School of Nursing in Manhattan and quickly established himself as a dedicated and capable pre-hospital care provider.

He began his public EMS service at Bellevue Hospital under the Health and Hospitals Corporation (HHC) in 1985.

During his career, he served in Harlem and Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx, and Metropolitan Hospital in Manhattan. In 2004, he transferred to EMS Station 4 and has remained there as his current assignment.

Paramedic Kupferberg’s clinical knowledge, situational awareness and calm demeanor have made him a respected leader and valued partner to all at the station. He has always brought professionalism and heart to every patient and family member he has encountered. Beyond his field duties, Paramedic Kupferberg is known as a mentor who leads with patience and humility.

He gives new paramedics the space to learn and grow, always offering guidance without overshadowing their development. Many members across the Department credit Frank with shaping their skills by offering both encouragement and high standards.

Frank grew up in a family committed to service. His father worked in computer technology for four decades, finishing his career at Police Plaza and retiring at the remarkable age of 80.

That same tenacity and dedication is evident in

Frank’s own career, as he is the most senior paramedic still working in the field.

Paramedic Kupferberg’s legacy is one of unwavering service, deep compassion and intellectual generosity. He is the inaugural recipient of the Dr. Sheldon Jacobson Award, given to a paramedic who demonstrates innovation, mentorship and a dedication to saving lives. Dr. Jacobson was the father of New York City paramedicine, which began more than 50 years ago in 1974 with Jacobi Medical Center’s first class. Dr. Jacobson was the founder, mentor and instructor of that class and laid the foundation for all that followed. Much like Dr. Jacobson, Paramedic Franklin Kupferberg represents the very best of what it means to serve this city.

It is with great pride that we honor him for his outstanding length of service and lasting contributions to the FDNY Emergency Medical Services with the Dr. Sheldon Jacobson Award—An Extraordinary Medal.—PM/AK

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Lieutenant James Curran

New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation Medal Engine Company 295 Lieutenant Eric P. Schaming Firefighter Ibrahim M. Mangane Firefighter Angel M. Cotto Jr., L-152 Firefighter Richard P. Kenney Jr., E-299 Firefighter John Kuper, L-130 June 9, 2024, 1428 hours, Box 75-4637, Queens

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Members of Engine Company 295 on June 9, 2024, at Box 75-4637, from left to right: Lt. Eric P. Schaming, FF Angel M. Cotto Jr. (det. L-152), FF Ibrahim M. Mangane and FF John Kuper (det. L-130). Missing: FF Richard P. Kenney Jr. (det. E-299).

n Sunday, June 9, 2024, at 2:28 p.m., Engine Company 295 and Ladder Company 144 responded to a reported fire in a private dwelling in the Whitestone section of Queens. While responding, they observed a large column of black smoke rising in the distance. The members knew this area was geographically isolated from other companies and that assistance could be delayed. This house was also close to the East River, and members knew from announcements at roll call that wind could be a factor. Upon arrival, Lieutenant Eric Schaming (E-295) transmitted a 10-75 for fire in a large, two-story detached private dwelling.

As Lt. Schaming sized up the house, he noticed there was heavy fire throughout and indications that this was, indeed, a wind-impacted fire. Looking down the alley, he also noticed that the rear siding, fencing and decking, as well as multiple small structures in the rear, were engulfed in flames. Lt. Schaming radioed his chauffeur, Firefighter Richard Kenney, to let the Queens dispatcher know they had a wind-impacted fire with possible exposure problems. Lt. Schaming ordered his nozzle firefighter, Probationary Firefighter Ibrahim Mangane, to stretch a 1 ¾-inch hoseline and instructed the chauffeur to charge the line with booster water.

A frantic woman approached the companies, saying that her husband was missing and possibly trapped inside the house.

As members began the fire attack at the front, they were met with extreme, blistering heat and flames from floor to ceiling, hindering Ladder 144's ability to perform their searches.

At that moment, the nozzle team—FF Mangane, Probationary Firefighter Angel Cotto (backup) and Firefighter John Kuper (control)—made Operations at a private dwelling fire at Queens Box 75-463 an aggressive on June 9, 2024. (Photos courtesy of FirstOnScenePhotos)

push into the building. They quickly knocked down fire in the foyer and dining room—both had 25-foot ceilings—which allowed Ladder 144 to begin their search of the first floor.

Now on hydrant water, Engine 295 made a push to the rear.

Battling flames and heat, they extinguished fire in the kitchen and living room. With fire threatening exposure 4, FF Kenney operated the deck pipe, which provided a water curtain. In the rear of the house, the nozzle team was met with a heavy volume of fire, fueled by exterior decking and siding, coming through the windows on the first floor. After knocking down all visible fire in the interior on the first floor and most of the fire in the rear, they knew they had the only handline in the building and proceeded to the second floor. After a punishing push up the stairs, Engine 295 then extinguished all visible fire on the second floor, enabling Ladder 144 to continue to search for the reported missing person, who was later found safely outside.

Engine 295's forward thinking and aggressive actions extinguished two floors of heavy fire in daunting, wind-impacted conditions. Under Lt. Schaming’s leadership, they kept the fire to the original fire building, persevered and worked as a cohesive unit, which is notable with three detailed members and two probationary firefighters that day. In keeping with the finest traditions of the New York City Fire Department, Engine Company 295 is awarded the Lieutenant James Curran/New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation Medal.—RLL

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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Firefighter Thomas R. Elsasser Memorial Medal Squad Company 288 Lieutenant Joshua L. Wiener, Rescue Bn Firefighter Patrick J. Conway Firefighter Dane R. Martin Firefighter John H. McCoy Firefighter Lawrence Richard, L-125 Firefighter Anthony Rivas Members of Squad Co. 288 from left to right: FF Dane Martin, FF Lawrence Richard, FF Patrick Conway, FF Anthony Rivas, Lt. Joshua Weiner and FF John McCoy.

February 19, 2024, 1152 hours, Box 33-4209, Queens

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n February 19, 2024, Squad Company 288 was as- plan to Command. Lt. Wiener split the company to keep assigned as the second-due engine for a reported fire sisting with the advance of the first line and to stretch and in a two-story, 20- by 50-foot, wood-frame, semi-at- operate the third line into exposure 4. FF Martin ran to the tached private dwelling. Upon arrival, Squad 288 assumed backstep of Engine 292 and acted as the control member their second-due engine duties in front of the fire building because no other members were available to estimate and when they heard screams coming from occupants who were connect the hoseline. trapped on the front porch roof.

FF Rivas and Lt. Wiener brought the hoseline to the first floor Firefighter Anthony Rivas (door) saw Ladder Company 140’s of exposure 4 and knocked down the extending fire. They then chauffeur removing one victim down a portable ladder. FF Ri- advanced the line to the second floor, where they encountered vas noticed that the ladder fell to the ground in the alley after a large volume of fire at the top of the stairs. After initially attackremoval and that additional victims were still trapped on the ing the fire, Squad 288 was ordered to back out and remain on porch roof. He lifted the portable ladder, ascended it and was the first floor so an exterior hoseline could operate and extinimmediately hit with high heat and smoke from both the open guish the fire on the exterior of the building. While standing fast, front door and the second-floor windows. Two panicked and Lt. Wiener and FF Rivas were rejoined by firefighters Richards, disoriented kids were moving farther down the porch, where Conway and McCoy. Squad 288’s hoseline was advanced to the they were trying to jump. Without hesitation, he secured a second floor once again, where the members operated until all young boy and brought him to the ground. He climbed the lad- visible fire was knocked down. Low on air and exhausted, Squad der once again to search for and remove a girl still trapped on 288 members were relieved by Engine Company 294. the roof by the spreading fire. Firefighter Dane Martin (chaufFor their actions at this fast-moving fire, with multiple feur) grabbed another portable ladder and positioned it for any trapped people requiring rescue, Squad Company 288 is other trapped victims or members. awarded the Thomas R. Elsasser Medal.—AP Meanwhile, Firefighters Lawrence Richards (nozzle), Patrick Conway (backup) and John McCoy (control) helped advance the first hoseline. Due to a large and advancing fire condition on multiple floors, a second hoseline was stretched and operating, but a third hoseline was needed after fire was discovered in exposure 4. With no other engine companies yet on scene, Lieutenant Joshua Wiener instructed FF Rivas to stretch the third line from Engine Company 292 and personally reported his Operations at third alarm, Queens Box 4209, February 19, 2024. (Photo courtesy of FirstOnScenePhotos) Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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World Trade Center Memorial Medal Ladder Company 18 Captain Bryan M. Scimeme, D-1 Firefighter (now Lt.) Kevin C. Alore Jr. Firefighter Michael L. Morano, Firefighter Justin C. Rodriguez Firefighter Dominic J. Torre Firefighter Nicholas P. Willoughby

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July 4, 2024, 2054 hours, Box 0247, Corlears Hook Park, Manhattan

Members of Ladder 18 who operated at Manhattan Box 0247, July 4, 2024, from left to right: FF Justin Rodriguez, FF Nicholas Willoughby, FF Kevin Alore Jr. (now lieutenant, promoted in April 2025), FF Michael Morano, FF Dominic Torre and Captain Bryan Scimeme (now assigned to Engine Co. 15).

n July 4, 2024, at 2052 hours, Ladder Company 18 was dispatched for an auto extrication at Box 0247, near Water Street at Jackson Street in Manhattan. En route, dispatch relayed that multiple calls had reported that a pickup truck had plowed into a crowd of people, including children, during a Fourth of July celebration.

Upon arrival at Corlears Hook Park, Ladder 18 was met by frantic bystanders pointing toward the baseball field, pleading for help. Captain Bryan Scimeme’s size-up revealed a large, gray pickup truck wedged between the baseball field fence and metal bleachers. The vehicle had jumped a curb, crashed through a 30-foot Parks Department fence and struck a large gathering of people.

The scene was chaotic, with scattered shoes, scooters and debris surrounding the truck. Bystanders screamed that people were trapped underneath. Because of the truck's position, a full 360-degree survey was not possible. Captain Scimeme’s initial report to Battalion 4 confirmed three victims pinned beneath the vehicle, with additional injuries throughout the area. Multiple ambulances were urgently requested.

One victim was located under the truck, just behind the driver’s side door. Two additional victims were under the front of the truck, trapped under each front wheel. Ladder 18 immediately began extrication efforts under challenging conditions: low visibility, increasing crowds and limited access to lifting points. Firefighter Nicholas Willoughby (roof) maneuvered

between the truck and bleachers to reach the front axle and position the airbags. Firefighter Rodriguez (OV) controlled the airbags, carefully lifting the vehicle and enabling Firefighter Michael Morano (can) to free one of the victims from beneath the front left tire and, with assistance from Firefighter Dominic Torre (irons), carry them to EMS. With the front left side raised, Firefighter Kevin Alore (LCC) positioned a floor jack under the opposite side of the axle, allowing enough clearance to free the victim trapped under the right front tire.

As that victim was removed, Ladder 18 discovered a fourth victim trapped under the right side of the truck. Access was extremely limited, with the only safe access to the victim through the baseball fence from the field side. Information was relayed to Squad 18, who began cutting through the fence, while Firefighters Torre and Willoughby stabilized the vehicle with cribbing as NYPD ESU lifted the rear. Once the vehicle was secured, Firefighter Morano was able to access and remove the victim located behind the driver’s-side door, then bring them to EMS. Firefighters Alore and Rodriguez then moved to the ballfield side of the fence and assisted Squad 18 in removing the final patient using floor jacks for additional clearance.

Throughout the operation, the members of Ladder 18 displayed exceptional professionalism, teamwork and composure under extreme pressure. Despite the complexity and urgency of the rescue, they executed their duties flawlessly. Notably, three of the firefighters were probationary members, yet they performed with remarkable skill and determination.

In total, seven patients were transported from the scene with three in traumatic arrest. The heroic efforts of Ladder 18 undoubtedly made a difference that night. For their extraordinary bravery and dedication, the members of Ladder Company 18 are awarded the World Trade Center Memorial Ladder Co. 18 members extricated four victims who were trapped beneath a large pickup truck after it barreled into a Fourth of July celebration. (Photo courtesy of Dean Moses) Medal.—JR Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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SERVICE RATING A FF Raed M. Khan, L-129

FF Joseph E. Pansini, L-127

Lt. Brian P. Currid, L-33

FF James A. Soutar III, L-41

FF Rafael J. Germosen, L-51

FF Ysnaldo Perez, E-60

FF John Hlavacek, R-4

Lt. Terrence M. Sweeney, L-105

FF Bryan Garcia, L-163

FF Timothy J. Smith, L-105

FF Scott J. Hamelburg, L-173

FF Bryan Anderson, E-247

Lt. Michael P. McPartland, L-157

FF Marc J. Douglas, L-45

FF Andrew T. Lind, L-157

FF Duane L. Davis, R-3

Lt. William R. Prange, L-59

FF Thomas C. Heedles, L-148

FF Robert Valazquez, L-170

Lt. Kevin M. Kirrane, L-154

FF Kevin C. Routledge, L-18

Lt. Kurtis Niemczyk, B-58

FF Kevin T. Purdy, L-46

FF Thomas J. Canzoneri, L-134

FF Marc A. Sylvers, Sq-252

Lt. Richard C. Cannon, L-148

Lt. Thomas Donoghue, E-84

FF Michael J. Gannone, L-174 Lt. Patrick W. Donaghy, L-36

FF Joseph A. Tenteromano, L-172 Capt. George M. Polito, L-169

FF Thomas E. Morrison, Sq-41 FF Jose A. Garcia, L-47

SERVICE RATING B FF Marc Randazzo, M-9

FF Jose E. Cristales, L-104

FF Gregory J. Gentile, L-169

FF Kelvin Ollivierre, L-124

FF Charles E. Denman, L-124

FF Anthony Rivas, Sq-288

Capt. Michael Urso, L-114

FF Gary R. Granberg, L-105

Lt. Andrew J. Winges, E-264

FF Juan G. Gonzalez, L-34

Capt. Jose M. Grullon, L-53

FF Matthew J. Murphy, R-3

FF Louis J. Maietta, E-53

FF Juan G. Gonzalez, L-34

FF Carlos A. Flores, E-97

FF Steven Goscicki, L-6

FF Ayanna J. Findlator, L-173

Lt. William J. Sessler, L-87

Lt. Paul J. Hoekzema, L-45

FF Osmar Martinez, L-43

FF Nicholas P. Morisano, L-45

FF Patrick S. Zarzycki, L-43

FF Kievon Y. Harper, R-5

FF Adam Kirchmann, Sq-41

FF Roland C. Rodriguez, L-5

FF Rostantin W. Kruczowy, L-51

FF Adam P. Bauer, L-103

FF Dennis P. Keating, L-37

Lt. Scott M. Doody, L-44

FF Joseph W. Pendergast, L-113 FF Alex P. Lasserre, L-54

FF Daniel J. Rodriguez, L-30

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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UNIT CITATIONS Marine Company 9

Squad Company 288

Ladder Company 18

January 6, 2024, Box 0936

March 8, 2024, Box 4209

July 4, 2024, Box 0247

Engine Company 275

Ladder Company 144

Squad Company 18

January 8, 2024, Box 4826

March 13, 2024, Box 4317

July 4, 2024, Box 0247

Engine Company 303

Ladder Company 37

Ladder Company 29

January 8, 2024, Box 4826

March 16, 2024, Box 7381

July 5, 2024, Box 2104

Ladder Company 133

Ladder Company 43

Engine Company 62

January 8, 2024, Box 4826

March 18, 2024, Box 1276

July 17, 2024, Box 3466

Engine Company 75

Ladder Company 158

Ladder Company 114

January 16, 2024, Box 3161

April 16, 2024, Box 5958

July 23, 2024, Box 1449

Ladder Company 33

Ladder Company 51

Engine Company 326

January 16, 2024, Box 3161

May 6, 2024, Box 3458

August 3, 2024, Box 5289

Ladder Company 56

Engine Company 151

Engine Company 275

January 16, 2024, Box 3161

May 8, 2024, Box 4835

August 3, 2024, Box 5289

Ladder Company 14

Hazmat Company 1

Engine Company 292

January 26, 2024, Box 1461

May 9, 2024, Box 0829

August 4, 2024, Box 7816

Ladder Company 136

Engine Company 302

Squad Company 18

February 7, 2024, Box 8240

May 20, 2024, Box 8922

November 12, 2024, Box 0457

Engine Company 305

Ladder Company 155

Engine Company 42

February 8, 2024, Box 4914

May 20, 2024, Box 8922

November 18, 2024, Box 2901

Engine Company 247

Engine Company 295

Engine Company 260

February 11, 2024, Box 2691

June 9, 2024, Box 4637

December 18, 2024, Box 7222

Engine Company 42

Engine Company 70

Engine Company 317

February 15, 2024, Box 4767

June 24, 2024, Box 4564

December 24, 2024, Box 5620

Engine Company 69

Ladder Company 53

February 23, 2024, Box 1647

June 24, 2024, Box 4564

Engine Company 59

Engine Company 330

February 23, 2024, Box 1647

June 27, 2024, Box 2976

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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CFR-D PRE-HOSPITAL SAVE COMMENDATIONS January 2024

Engine Co. 331, March 18

Engine Co. 63, July 16

Engine Co. 5, January 19

Squad Co. 270, March 29

Engine Co. 93, July 28

Engine Co. 48, January 26

Engine Co. 217, July 24

Engine Co. 68, January 24

April 2024

Engine Co. 243, July 17

Engine Co. 81, January 1

Engine Co. 46, April 17

Engine Co. 246, July 12

Engine Co. 159, January 25

Engine Co. 48, April 12

Engine Co. 253, July 14

Engine Co. 214, January 15

Engine Co. 53, April 16

Engine Co. 257, July 18

Engine Co. 221, January 5

Engine Co. 59, April 11

Engine Co. 234, January 26

Engine Co. 243, April 9

August 2024

Engine Co. 245, January 27

Engine Co. 260, April 16

Engine Co. 21, August 27

Engine Co. 257, January 27

Engine Co. 260, April 21

Engine Co. 207, August 1

Engine Co. 274, January 29

Engine Co. 290, April 17

Engine Co. 219, August 28

Engine Co. 306, January 4

Engine Co. 298, April 23

Engine Co. 284, August 24

Engine Co. 318, January 6

Engine Co. 302, April 1

Engine Co. 287, August 10

Engine Co. 309, April 30

Engine Co. 302, August 13

February 2024

Engine Co. 310, April 1

Engine Co. 304, August 9

Engine Co. 50, February 5

Squad Co. 252, April 29 September 2024

Engine Co. 68, February 7 Engine Co. 83, February 26

May 2024

Engine Co. 59, September 30

Engine Co. 95, February 6

Engine Co. 9, May 10

Engine Co. 62, September 13

Engine Co. 225, February 18

Engine Co. 48, May 17

Engine Co. 73, September 5

Engine Co. 257, February 19

Engine Co. 158, May 9

Engine Co. 263, September 7

Engine Co. 262, February 26

Engine Co. 202, May 20

Engine Co. 317, September 6

Engine Co. 263, February 20

Engine Co. 225, May 11

Engine Co. 329, September 12

Engine Co. 263, February 20

Engine Co. 236, May 26

Squad Co. 288, September 12

Engine Co. 276, February 20

Engine Co. 246, May 20

Engine Co. 298, February 28

Engine Co. 260, May 7

October 2024

Engine Co. 301, February 4

Engine Co. 277, May 15

Engine Co. 226, October 11

Engine Co. 302, February 4

Engine Co. 302, May 18

Engine Co. 257, October 31

Engine Co. 303, February 19

Engine Co. 309, May 27

Engine Co. 276, October 1

Squad Co. 8, February 6

Engine Co. 282, October 24 June 2024

Squad Co. 18, October 4

March 2024

Engine Co. 47, June 25

Engine Co. 9, March 2

Engine Co. 62, June 7

November 2024

Engine Co. 52, March 30

Engine Co. 93, June 13

Engine Co. 201, November 16

Engine Co. 228, March 24

Engine Co. 155, June 12

Engine Co. 242, November 22

Engine Co. 243, March 16

Engine Co. 236, June 7

Engine Co. 248, November 15

Engine Co. 281, March 4

Engine Co. 299, June 27

Engine Co. 299, November 16

Engine Co. 290, March 22

Engine Co. 324, June 19 December 2024

Engine Co. 294, March 12 Engine Co. 318, March 7

July 2024

Engine Co. 275, December 29

Engine Co. 323, March 17

Engine Co. 34, July 31

Engine Co. 303, December 15

Engine Co. 330, March 16

Engine Co. 62, July 10

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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BUREAU OF FIRE INVESTIGATION—BFI SERVICE RATING A

SERVICE RATING B

July 4, 2024, FM Matthew L. Rocco, CWN July 4, 2024, FM David Leibowitz, SIU

April 19, 2024, FM Eric H. Lambrechts, CWS June 20, 2024, FM Bryan D. Fealy, CWN June 22, 2024, FM Kevin J. Goodwin, CWS

UNIT CITATIONS Brooklyn Domestic Violence Arson April 19, 2024, Box 0708

Manhattan Vehicle Serial Arson July 11, 2024, Box 0149

Brooklyn Molotov Arson Task Force June 17, 2024, Box 0783

Bronx Commercial/Revenge Arson September 19, 2024, Box 3019

Queens Serial Arson October 19, 2024, Box 6996

EXCELLENCE IN CLINICAL CARE AWARD (ECCA) EMT Emmanuel Alvarez-Lozada

Paramedic Lawrence Paredes

Captain Daniel Burgos

EMT Alonzo Perkinson

Lieutenant Giovanni Caballero

Lieutenant John Quiles

Lieutenant Brian Cotiaux

Paramedic Kira Ray

Paramedic Corinne Fairlie

Lieutenant Shlomo Raymon

EMT Madelyn Fernandez

Paramedic Vincent Rebolledo

Firefighter Christopher Forrester

Paramedic Eric Reilly

EMT David Gehart

Paramedic Andrew Reiner

Paramedic Shewain George

EMT Christian Ridge

Lieutenant Luke Hardcastle

Paramedic Alexa Riggio

EMT James Hardy

Paramedic Jennifer Rivera

EMT William Herbst

Paramedic Nicole Rosales

Paramedic Shoshana Holzberg-Pill

Firefighter Rio Santos

Paramedic Robert Hyde

Paramedic James Smith

Lieutenant Ramon Jimenez

Paramedic Hugh Smith II

Paramedic Nicholas Magro

Lieutenant Christopher Taylor

Paramedic Aldo Martinez Jr.

Paramedic Jessica Vega

Lieutenant Brian Mcintyre

Firefighter Duran Velasquez

Firefighter Joseph Meagher

Fire Captain James Welch

Paramedic Jovany Melo

Lieutenant Shlomo Winkler

Paramedic Michael Montemorano Sr. Lieutenant Justin Ogrady Paramedic James Oneill

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2024 PRE-HOSPITAL SAVE AWARDS Number in parentheses indicates number of saves.

EMT Michael Abbriano (1) PAR Alex Acevedo (2) EMT Israel Acosta III (1) EMT Jeslin Acuria Rodriguez (1) ELT Brandon Adams (2) EMT Jerilyn Afanador (1) PAR Julianne Agosta (1) ELT Hasnie Ahmetaj (1) EMT James Aiuto (4) PAR Youssef Al Hammami (1) PAR Angie Alburquerque (1) ELT Ashley Alejo (1) EMT Christopher Alfonso (1) EMT Pierce Allen (1) EMT Erica Allston (1) EMT Mark Almogazi (1) PAR Michelle Alvarado (1) EMT Jack Alzheimer (1) EMT Kenneth Amato (1) EMT Marissa Amaya (1) EMT Darrol Anderson (1) EMT Edward Anderson (1) EMT Matthew Anderson (1) EMT Dominic Angelella (1) ELT Blair Araujo (2) PAR Victoria Ardis (1) EMT Zachary Arias (1) PAR Jonathan Armijos Torres (1) EMT Nicole Arocho (2) EMT Mohammad Assad (1) PAR Thomas Augugliaro (1) ELT Gilberto Aviles (1) PAR Marcus Bacchus (3) EMT Freddie Badillo (1) EMT Nyeela Bailey (1) PAR Lancia Bailey-Hooper (1) PAR Pancho Bajana (4) PAR Nicole Baker (1) EMT Thomas Baldrian (1) EMT Craig Balkhuysen (1) PAR Cedric Banton (1) PAR Xiaotian Bao (1) PAR Matthew Barbella (1) EMT Jeffrey Barone (1) EMT Lorenzo Barron (1) PAR Alexander Bases (2) ELT Ohnesto Batalla (1) EMT Lance Beaubian (2) PAR Christopher Belle (1) EMT Ryan Bello (1) PAR Yehezkel Ben Yaakov (6) EMT Santiago Bendana Jr. (2) EMT Brandon Benitez (1) ELT Jose Benitez (1) EMT Frederick Benjamin (2) ELT Joshua Benjamin Bernstein (2) EMT Jeff Benoit (2) EMT Brandon Bentley (1) EMT Francesco Berardi (1) EMT Jesse Bernheimer (1)

PAR Priscilla Castro (1) ELT Jennifer Bernstein (1) PAR Cesar Cevallos (1) EMT Jerrell Bethea (1) PAR Christopher Chalmers (3) EMT Andrey Bezborodov (3) PAR David Chambers (3) ELT Peter Bilardello (3) EMT Anthony Champion (1) PAR Jonathan Billian (2) PAR Chin-Shan Chan (1) PAR Robert Boardman (2) ELT Eric Chanin (1) PAR Elizabeth Bonilla (1) PAR Eric Chanin (1) ELT Yan Borukhov (1) ELT Christopher Chaplin (1) EMT Saverio Bosco Jr. (1) EMT Andreas Charalambous (1) EMT Ioannis Bouratoglou (1) ELT Pierre Charboneau (3) EMT Karl Bowen-Allen (1) EMT Desjean Charles (1) PAR Ashley Bowlin (1) PAR Jerry Chatelain (4) ELT Kevin Bratholt (2) PAR Jonathan Chavez (1) ELT Joel Brathwaite (1) EMT Luis Chavez (1) PAR Charles Braun (1) EMT Nicholas Checchia (1) EMT Jaden Breyette (1) ELT Dennis Chen (1) ELT Artur Bronshteyn (2) PAR Rong Liang Chen (2) ELT Bruce Brown (1) ELT Zhen Huan Chen (2) EMT Daniel Browne (1) EMT Kevin Chew (1) ELT Bree Brown-Rosa (1) ELT Jeffrey Chin (1) EMT Ashley Bruhert (2) ELT Nazbi Chowdhury (1) PAR Kelvin Bruno (1) EMT Frank Ciccone (1) EMT James Brussell (1) EMT Maciej Cichosz (1) PAR Lauren Bryan (2) PAR Amela Cirikovic (1) PAR Teodulo Buhat (1) PAR Nikko Cocciolillo (1) PAR Vincent Bui (1) EMT Matthew Colavito (1) EMT Andres Buitrago (1) EMT Joseph Collins (1) PAR Keil Burey (1) PAR Johanny Colon (1) ELT Daniel Burgos (2) PAR Gerard Colvert (2) EMT Peter Burgos (2) EMT Joanna Connors (1) LT Thomas Burns (2) EMT Richard Consolazio (1) EMT Sergey Buryanenko (1) EMT Kevin Cook (1) PAR Alexis Buttermark (1) EMT Ryan Corbett (1) PAR Alex Byrd (3) ELT Zuleyka Cordero Lozada (1) ELT Joseph Caba (1) PAR Zuleyka Cordero Lozada (1) ELT Giovanni Caballero (1) PAR Amanda Cornwall (1) EMT John Cabezas (2) PAR Adrian Corona (1) EMT Jordan Caceres (2) ELT Gary Cortes (1) EMT Arnaldo Cacho (1) PAR Jenna Cosa (1) ELT Steven Caggiano (2) EMT Miles Costa (1) PAR Christopher Caldwell (1) EMT Shane Costello (2) EMT Michael Calisto (2) PAR John Costigan (1) EMT David Calix (2) ELT Brian Cotiaux (1) PAR Linda Callery (2) EMT Sandra Cotton (2) ELT Kirby Cameron (3) PAR Ali Coutard (1) EMT Christopher Campiglia (1) PAR Jillian Cox (1) ELT Teri Ann Cancetty Melas (1) PAR Kenneth Craig (1) ELT Gene Canel (4) EMT Canaan Crayton (1) EMT Jasiah Canelo (2) PAR Mario Crespo (1) EMT Jonathan Cano Gomez (1) PAR Dina Crespo Bruno (4) EMT Tyrone Capers (1) EMT Ruben Crews (1) PAR Alberto Caraballo (1) PAR Christopher Crutchfield (2) EMT Armando Cardenio Jr. (2) EMT Joseph Cruz (1) EMT Nicole Carlson (1) ELT Stephanie Cruz (2) EMT Sergio Cascio (2) PAR Kaity Cubias (1) EMT Ticquan Casey (2) EMT Meghan Cullen (1) EMT Johnny Casquete Salazar (2) EMT John Culmine (1) ELT Diana Cassa (1) PAR Giovanni Cummings (1) EMT Joseph Castelli (1) PAR Owen Cunningham (2) PAR Ruben Castillo (1) Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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EMT Justin Cuomo (1) ELT Michael Curatolo (1) EMT Gregory Curiel (2) EMT Michael Curtis (1) ELT Timothy Cusack (2) PAR Loribeth Cusumano (1) PAR Philip Dacey (1) PAR Shizam Dalbarry (1) PAR Christopher Daley (1) EMT Peter Daly (1) ELT Sencia Datilus (1) EMT Gioacchino Davi (1) ELT Calin David (2) PAR Kerry David (1) EMT Theodore David (1) PAR Jorge Davila (1) PAR Michael Davis (1) PAR Dakota Dawkins (1) ELT Gonzalo De Jesus (1) EMT Eliza De Leon Escobar (1) EMT Patrick Deery (1) PAR Dominick Defranco (7) EMT Trevor Degnan (1) EMT Walter Dehaan (1) ELT Jesus Deinnocentiis (1) PAR Ryan Dejesus (3) ELT David Deleon (1) PAR Jose Deleon Pichardo (2) EMT Joseph Demodna (1) ELT Christopher Demott (2) EMT Brandon Demulder (1) ELT Michael Dennehy (1) EMT Anthony Devita III (1) PAR James Diaz (1) PAR Jeffrey Diaz (2) PAR Natalie Diaz (2) EMT Ramon Diaz (1) PAR Rocky Diaz (2) PAR Leilany Diaz Martinez (1) EMT Dillon Digenova (1) PAR Alacea Diggs (1) EMT Thomas Dilorenzo (1) EMT Tyler Dilorenzo (2) PAR Trinh Dinh (1) EMT Brendan Donnelly (1) ELT Thomas Donofrio (4) PAR Frederick Dorner (1) ELT Anselmo Dos Santos (1) EMT Drew Douglas (1) PAR Naytasha Doyle (1) EMT Douglas Drumgo II (1) ELT Ian D'Souza (1) PAR Tholeme Dumay (1) ELT Robert Dupree (1) PAR Jason Dwyer (1) EMT Vincent Eckardt (1) PAR Kristopher Eckert (3) EMT John Egan (1) EMT Luca Eisen (1) PAR Jamaal El Shabazz (2)

PAR Neal Eles (1) PAR Doraun Ellis (1) EMT Jasmine Emile (1) EMT Sean Engel (1) EMT Matthew Englund (1) EMT Ameen Ennab (1) PAR Vincent Ercolano (1) PAR Matthew Faeth (1) PAR Corinne Fairlie (1) EMT Mustafa Farah (1) PAR Ian Farrington (1) EMT James Fasano (1) EMT Andy Feliciano (1) EMT Julian Feliciano (1) EMT Anthony Ferrara (1) ELT Thomas Ferrara (2) ELT Alvin Figueroa (2) ELT Jerry Figueroa (1) EMT John Findeisen (1) PAR Claire Fitzgerald (2) EMT Ryan Flatley (1) EMT Robert Fleming Jr. (1) EMT Jean Fleuristil (2) ELT Miguel Flores (1) PAR Paul Floridia (1) EMT Christopher Florio (1) PAR Michael Fox (1) PAR Michael Frail (1) PAR Dante Francisco (2) ELT Helen Franco (1) EMT Alex Fuentes (1) ELT Japhet Gaengan (1) EMT James Gallagher (2) EMT Vito Gallicchio (1) ELT Anthony Gallo (1) EMT Caterin Garcia (1) EMT Henry Garcia (1) ELT Jessy Garcia (1) EMT Kimberlin Garcia Garcia (1) EMT Jonathan Gargiso (3) PAR Kelcee Garneau (1) EMT Patrick Garrett (1) EMT Ian Garvin (1) ELT Juan Gavilanes (2) PAR Schuyler Gazzo (1) EMT David Gehart (1) EMT Thomas Geis (2) ELT Bruce Geiser (1) EMT Anthony Gentiluomo (2) ELT Edward Gerber (1) PAR James Geronimo (1) EMT Robert Giacoia (1) EMT Christopher Giasi (1) EMT Daniel Gilder (1) EMT Thomas Gintoli (1) ELT Michael Ginty (2) PAR Joshua Gluck (1) EMT Oswaldo Goatache Segur (1) EMT Dursuncan Gokkaya (2) EMT Jack Golden (1) PAR Shirah Goldstock (1)

2024 PRE-HOSPITAL SAVE AWARDS

EMT Chase Hudson (1) ELT Alexander Gomez (1) PAR Tahirah Hulse (1) ELT Yonh Gomez (3) EMT Celina Hussain (1) EMT Alexander Gonzales (1) PAR Robert Hyde (1) EMT Kandis Gonzales (1) EMT Thomas Ilishaev Kurs (1) PAR Alexis Gonzalez (1) EMT Sean Immel (1) ELT Andre Gonzalez (2) ELT Eric Ingram (2) ELT Edwin Gonzalez (1) PAR Christopher Jacobs (1) PAR Jason Gonzalez (1) PAR David Jean-Baptiste (1) PAR Julisa Gonzalez (3) PAR Sade Jeannot Monchik (1) EMT Kenneth Gonzalez (1) PAR Darren Jefferson (2) EMT Nicholas Gonzalez (1) ELT Joshua Goset (2) PAR Jonathan Jimenez (1) ELT Valerie Gosling-Martinez (1) PAR Joshua Jimenez (1) EMT Anhya Grant (1) PAR Casey Johnson (1) PAR Erin Greaney (2) EMT Jon Johnson (1) EMT Jermaine Gregg (1) ELT Andre Jones (2) PAR Michael Gregor (2) EMT Breyon Jones (1) EMT Steven Grizzaffi (1) EMT Matthew Jordan (1) PAR Barry Gruenbaum (1) PAR Joel Joseph (1) EMT Elias Guardado (1) PAR Eduardo Juarez Garcia (1) PAR Nicholas Guinta (1) ELT Philip Jugenheimer (1) ELT Magdalena Guirand (1) PAR Winsley Julien (1) EMT Thomas Gustin (1) ELT Ravivarman Kailayanathan (1) EMT Christopher Gutierrez (2) PAR Jessica Kaldor (1) PAR Cecil Guy (1) EMT Michael Kavanagh Jr. (1) PAR Joshua Haber (1) EMT Rosemary Kearins (1) PAR Lana Hagai (1) EMT Daniel Kenny (1) PAR Sharona Hagler (1) EMT Joseph Kessler (1) EMT Konstantinos Halkias (1) ELT Omran Khan (1) EMT Cassidy Hallahan (2) PAR Shuvveir Khan (1) EMT Geron Hamilton (2) ELT David Kher (2) EMT Daniel Hanlon (1) ELT Pavel Khriyenko (1) EMT Jordan Hannah (1) PAR Courtney Kiernan (1) ELT Luke Hardcastle (1) PAR Ki Hyun Kim (1) EMT James Hardy (1) PAR Jannell King (1) ELT Mark Harricharan (1) EMT Hillary King Banque (1) EMT Jeba Hassan (1) ELT Justin Kinney (1) ELT James Hayter (3) PAR Andrey Kirichenko (3) EMT Michael Healey (1) PAR Sergiy Kiseliuk (2) EMT Evan Heegan (2) ELT Moshe Klein (3) PAR Christian Hehn (2) PAR Jonathan Kleisner (2) EMT Seamus Henning Finneran (1) PAR Robert Koemm (2) ELT Amanda Henry (1) EMT Stephen Koester (1) EMT William Herbst (1) PAR Darren Kondas (1) EMT David Hernandez (1) PAR Daviti Korinteli (2) PAR David Hernandez (1) EMT Nicholas Koskinas (1) PAR Dawil Hernandez (1) PAR Ewa Koszowska (1) ELT John Hernandez (1) EMT James Krauss (1) EMT Samuel Hernandez (1) PAR Marc Krokowski (3) PAR Eridania Hichez (2) ELT George Kroustallis (2) PAR Austin Higley (1) EMT Andrei Kudrashov (3) ELT Madelyn Higueros (1) PAR Franklin Kupferberg (1) ELT Luke Hill (3) ELT Josephine Kwok (2) EMT Komla Hlomawou (2) EMT Shem La Fleur (1) ELT Andrew Hodges (1) EMT Craig Ladka (1) PAR Andrew Hodges (1) PAR Marlene Lantigua (1) EMT Karl Hoerlein (1) PAR Nicholas Larocca (2) EMT Karsten Holldorf (2) EMT Frank Latino (1) PAR Shoshana Holzberg-Pill (2) EMT Ricky Laureano (1) PAR Ivan Hom (1) EMT Jayson Laurore (1) EMT Derek Hong (2) ELT Crystal Lawrence (1) Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2025

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EMT Darline Lawrence (1) ELT Kenneth Lebow (1) EMT Kieran Lennon (1) PAR Jessica Leon (2) ELT Monica Lewis (1) PAR Quedar Lewis (1) ELT Justin Lim (2) EMT Tat Lim (1) PAR Jesse Lipton (1) EMT Jacob Lisboa (1) PAR Anthony Loaiza (1) EMT Brian Lobaton (1) ELT Kyle Logiudice (1) PAR Darren Lolk (2) EMT Erik Lomonaco (1) ELT John Lopez (1) EMT Christopher Love (2) EMT Robert Lubinski (4) EMT Matthew Lyde (1) PAR Agnieszka Lynch (5) EMT Matthew Mackay (1) PAR Juan Madera (1) PAR Nelson Madrigal (2) PAR Nicholas Magro (2) EMT Sean Mahoney (1) ELT Valeri Makarets (1) PAR Miguel Maldonado (3) PAR Orlando Malinay (1) EMT Joseph Maloku (1) PAR Michael Mancino (1) ELT Neil Mancuso (3) EMT John Mangan (2) EMT Nicholas Maniscalco (1) PAR Anthony Marascia (7) ELT Robertson Marc (1) ELT John Marino (2) ELT Thomas Marsden (1) EMT Tristan Martin Jr. (1) EMT Daniel Martinez (1) EMT Francisco Martinez (1) ELT Marisel Martinez (1) EMT Pedro Martinez Veras (2) EMT Peter Massimillo (3) EMT Jeffrey Mathews Jr. (1) PAR Eric Matonis (1) PAR Peter Matura (1) PAR Frank Maynard (1) ELT Christopher Mazziotti (1) ELT David McCarthy (1) EMT Neville Mccauley Jr. (1) EMT Rejeanne Mcclymont (1) EMT Justine McCormack (1) PAR Angela Mccray (1) PAR Christopher McDaniels (1) PAR Sophia McDonnell (1) ELT James McGee (1) EMT Matthew McGill (1) PAR Brian McIntyre (1) EMT Kevin Mckeon (1) ELT Tyrone Mclune (1) EMT Vincenzo Mezzacappa (1)

EMT Anthony Miceli (2) Deputy Chief Terrance Middleton (1) ELT Alexandru Mihailescu (2) EMT William Millan (2) PAR Paige Miller (2) PAR Cilla Miller Richards (1) EMT John Miloslau (1) EMT Patrick Minihane (1) PAR Malathia Mobley (1) PAR Steven Moise Jr. (1) EMT David Mojica (1) EMT Elias Mondezie (1) EMT Christian Monteavaro (1) PAR Michael Montemorano Sr. (1) ELT Mario Montoya Sr. (1) PAR Joseph Mora (1) PAR Giovanie Morales (1) PAR Jonathan Morel (2) ELT Melanie Moreno (1) EMT Andrew Morris (1) ELT Brian Morrissey (1) PAR Mourtaz Mourtazaliev (4) EMT Aiden Mullens (1) ELT Steven Myhand (3) PAR Samerah Nagi (1) EMT Jamilah Nance (1) EMT Vincenzo Natale (1) EMT Elijah Negron (1) PAR Andrew Nellen (1) PAR Christina Newman (1) EMT Connor Nicholson (1) PAR Jessica Nieves (1) EMT Christopher Nigro (1) ELT Vladimir Nikulin (2) PAR Nariman Niyazov (2) PAR Stephen Northmore (1) PAR Alexander Nunez (1) ELT Eric Nunez (1) EMT Ricardo Nunez (2) ELT Marat Nurilov (3) PAR Mark Obrien (1) EMT Patrick O'Brien (1) EMT Joseph Occhiuto (2) EMT James O'Donohue (1) ELT Kevin Oh (1) PAR Kevin Ohara (1) PAR Brandon Ojeda (1) EMT Michael Olsen (1) ELT Meleki Oneal (1) PAR James Oneill (2) EMT Frantz Oriol (1) ELT Christopher Orlik (4) ELT Daniel Ornstein (2) EMT Andrew Orourke (1) EMT Justin Ortiz (1) PAR Michael Ortiz (1) EMT Victoria Ortiz (1) EMT Richard Ortiz Jr. (1) ELT Niall Oshaughnessy (3) PAR Leonardo Ospino (2)

2024 PRE-HOSPITAL SAVE AWARDS EMT Kyle Rafferty (1) EMT Tanvir Rafid (1) ELT Jairo Ramos (3) ELT Veronica Ramos (4) ELT Vijay Rampersad (1) PAR Nigel Ramsook (1) PAR Shaeumos Rand (1) PAR Asraf Rashid (2) PAR Darius Ratliff (2) ECP James Rawcliffe (2) ELT Shlomo Raymon (1) EMT Drew Reems (1) PAR Andrew Reiner (1) EMT Samuele Rella (1) EMT Dennis Reyes (1) PAR Edward Reynolds (1) PAR Christopher Reynoso (1) PAR Alvin Rhaburn Jr. (2) EMT Nicholas Riccardelli (1) ELT Rocco Riccardi (5) EMT Devon Ricciardi (1) EMT Nicholas Riggio (1) PAR Nicholas Rinaldi (2) EMT Juan Rios (1) EMT Cristian Rivas (1) ELT Diane Rivas (1) EMT Alexis Rivera (1) PAR David Rivera (2) ELT Jonathan Rivera (1) PAR Justin Rivera (2) PAR Richard Rivera (2) PAR Earl Roberts (1) EMT Julia Rodgers (1) EMT Antonio Rodriguez (1) PAR Cristino Rodriguez (1) ELT Jeanine Rodriguez (7) ELT Juan Rodriguez (1) EMT Nicholas Rodriguez (1) PAR William Rodriguez (1) PAR Yesenia Rodriguez (2) EMT Carlos Rodriguez Jr. (1) PAR Michael Rojas (2) PAR Luis Rojas Gonzalez (1) EMT Manuel Rojas Santana (1) PAR Angel Roldos Jr. (1) PAR Daniel Rollero (1) EMT Richard Romanek (1) EMT Jayson Romano (1) ELT Anastasiya Romashchenko (1) PAR Edgar Romero (1) EMT Jeremy Rondon (1) EMT Joel Rosado (1) PAR Nicole Rosales (1) EMT Jailene Rosario (1) EMT Matthew Rose (1) PAR Ryan Rose (1) ELT Andrew Rosenthal (1) EMT Michael Rotolo (1) PAR Jonathan Ruiz (1) EMT Carlos Ruiz Jr. (1)

EMT Gregory Ostrove (2) ELT Ricardo Otero (1) PAR Edva Pace (1) EMT Miguel Pacheco (1) PAR Kieran Padgett (1) ELT Lennon Parasram (1) EMT Jeremy Parrino (1) ELT Gregory Partch Jr. (3) EMT Matthew Pascale (1) EMT Anthony Pasqualone (2) PAR Kayla Pasquarello (1) ELT Angela Patanio (1) EMT Rashaun Patterson (2) EMT Christopher Paul (1) EMT Ashlee Paulino (3) PAR Michael Paulino (1) PAR Siul Paulino (2) PAR Robert Pav (1) EMT Kevin Pearson (2) ELT Amaury Pena (1) EMT Anthony Peralta (1) PAR Gisneiry Peralta (2) PAR Alexandre Pereira (1) EMT Matthew Pereira (1) EMT Gilbert Perez (1) EMT Madelyn Perez (1) PAR Rachel Perez (1) EMT Michael Perez Barreras (1) EMT Alonzo Perkinson (2) ELT Andre Persaud (1) PAR Nathan Persaud (1) PAR Rameshwar Persaud (1) PAR Julian Peterson (1) EMT O'Brien Peyton (1) ELT Christopher Pierce (3) PAR Kreisha Pierre (1) ELT Latasha Pierre (1) PAR Jose Pineda (1) PAR James Pione (2) EMT Salvatore Pisano (1) EMT Melissa Plasencia (1) PAR Diego Poblete Espinoz (2) EMT Alcibiades Polanco (1) ELT Vadim Polishchuk (2) EMT Devon Pollard (2) EMT Alejandro Ponce (1) PAR Yan Hao Poon (1) EMT Sebastian Porras (1) ELT Michael Potasso (1) EMT Mariah Prasenski-Oricchio (1) PAR Lauren Prescott (1) PAR Alessandra Prestigiacomo (1) EMT Angelique Price (1) EMT Nicholas Primiano (2) PAR Kaylan Prosper (2) PAR Martha Pulgarin Arias (1) EMT Daniel Qamar (3) ELT John Quiles (2) EMT Brendan Quinn (2) PAR Kelly Quirke (1)

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EMT Sean Rumbler (1) EMT Anthony Russo (1) EMT Salvatore Russo (1) EMT Michael Russo Jr. (1) ELT Corey Ruth (2) ECP Brendan Ryan (2) PAR Anna Sadowska (1) PAR Kevin Saint-Dic (1) PAR Jonathan Sala (1) PAR Paul Saladis III (2) EMT Jonathan Saldivar (1) PAR Alexa Sambrato (1) EMT Anthony Sanchez (1) PAR Ricardo Sanchez (2) ELT Ryan Sanchez (1) EMT Ricky Sanders (1) PAR Mario Santiago (1) PAR Veronica Santiago (1) ELT Nicolas Santini (1) EMT Miguel Santos (1) EMT Justin Sarapaivanit (1) PAR Anthony Scala (1) EMT Frank Scala III (1) ELT Hervin Scott (1) ELT Joao Seabra (1) EMT Odonai Seaforth (2) EMT Christian Seftner (1) EMT Christian Segarra (1) PAR Hakim Sehad (4) EMT Maxwell Senger (1) EMT Matthew Serras (1) PAR Thomas Seyford (1) ELT Chunghing Sham (3) ELT Stephen Sham (1) ELT Ajay Sharma (2) ELT Kimberly Sharpe (3) EMT Andrew Sheppard (1) PAR Daniel Sieger (4) EMT Frank Sikorski (1) ECP Suchingh Singh (1) EMT Mamadou Sissoko (1) EMT C'iarra Smalls (1) EMT Danielle Smith (1) PAR Hugh Smith II (3) PAR Lucey Snyder (1) PAR Arnaldo Soler (2) EMT Sandra Sookhai-Castro (1) EMT Ayden Soto (1) EMT Jennifer Soto (1) EMT Taylor Soto (1) EMT Miguel Soto Jr. (1) EMT Robert Soto Jr. (1) ELT Jason Spandorf (2) EMT Salvatore Sportiello (1) EMT Joell Springer (2) PAR Kellan Squire (1) ELT Soraya Squire (1) PAR Laura Squitire (1) EMT Elijah Starks (1) EMT Garrett Stein (1)

ELT Gerald Stepanyk (1) EMT Cecilia Stevens (1) EMT Gerry Stevens Jr. (1) ELT Cindy Stewart (6) EMT Doriano Stewart (1) EMT Kemar Stewartson (1) PAR Thomas Strong (1) PAR Maggie Studsrud (1) EMT Marso Sully (1) EMT Xia Sun (1) PAR Wojciech Szczech (1) PAR Gallant Tam (2) ELT Yiru Tan (3) EMT Francesco Tarasi (2) EMT Mitchell Tarnapolsky (2) ELT Christopher Taylor (3) EMT Carlos Tellez-Flores (1) ELT Anthony Terranova (4) EMT Danavon Thomas (1) ELT Elwood Thomas (1) EMT Jallin Thomas (1) PAR Shakaina Thomas (1) ELT Bo-Ann Thorpe (1) EMT Dean Timmons (1) EMT William Timony (1) PAR Vanessa Tineo (1) PAR Lucas Tinnirello (1) PAR Erin Toner (1)

2024 PRE-HOSPITAL SAVE AWARDS

2024 First Quarter Station 16, 1 Faisel Abed Michael P. Fregonese Brandon A. Rodriguez Alexander Gomez

January 2024 Station 3, 03B3 Santiago Bendana Jessie Owens Brian Fernandez Michael Gennaro February 2024 Station 18, 18H3 Mark Estick Ivan Santiago John Glidden Matthew Lobaton

EMT Diana Toro (2) ELT Alberto Torres (1) ELT Camalia Torres (1) PAR Christopher Torres (1) PAR George Torres (1) PAR Madeline Torres (1) PAR Joseph Torrillo Jr. (1) PAR Anthony Tortorici (1) PAR Anaxenia Toyloy (1) PAR Michael Travers (1) ELT John Travis (1) EMT George Tsaava (1) PAR Mahaujah Turner (1) PAR Dana Twomey (1) PAR Vitaly Usherenko (1) PAR Amanda Uster (1) ELT Peter Vaccaro (1) PAR Laurenann Valdez (4) PAR Robert Vales (1) PAR Ian Valle (1) PAR Kenneth Valle (1) EMT Austin Vargo (1) EMT Francisco Vasquez (1) PAR Anthony Vass (2) PAR Kevin Vazquez (1) PAR Jessica Vega (1) PAR Christine Velez (1) PAR Esteban Velez (1)

PAR Jahayra Veliz (2) PAR William Ventura Cortes (1) EMT Keniesha Venzen (1) PAR Kimberly Verspoor (2) PAR Kaylie Vines (2) EMT Joseph Virgilio Jr. (1) ELT John Vives (1) EMT Eric Walker Jr. (1) EMT Conor Walsh (1) ELT Robert Walsh (1) EMT Jade Walters (1) PAR Xin Wang (1) PAR James Ward (1) PAR Tahmeek Ware (2) PAR Marcus Waring (2) EMT Matthew Warnock (1) EMT Damani Washington (1) ELT Andrew Wasniewski (1) PAR Kira Watkins (1) EMT Raashid Weekes (1) PAR Lauren Weeks (2) EMT Abraham Weinstein (2) EMT Warren Welch (1) PAR Kevin Wells (2) EMT Steven Welsh (1) PAR Harlan Wernz (1) ELT Alwain White (1) EMT Anthony White (2)

OFFICER OF THE QUARTER 2024

2024 Second Quarter Station 58, 2 Robinson Marc Taisha Robinson

2024 Third Quarter Station 26, 2 Peter Borriello Bruce Geiser Christopher Leon Kathleen Wood

EMS UNIT OF THE MONTH 2024 May 2024 Station 47, 47C2 John Mayrose Michael Spalletta Cassidy Hallahan Matthew Pascale

September 2024 Station 14, 82C2 Nathaniel Martins Alex Touitou Brian Arias Travis Barrett

June 2024 Station 10, 10H3 Bogdan Tiflinsky Matin M. Moradi

October 2024 Station 40, 42C2 Christopher Echevarria John Culmine Joseph Occhiuto

March 2024 Station 10, 12R3 Deborah Holzberg-Pill Nicholas Magro

July 2024 Station 4, 04Y2 Kristen Schnibbe Christopher Hagemann Alexander Velasquez Giannella Robalino

April 2024 Station 31, 31H2 William Cadet Mohammed Assad Jeremiah Belcher Henry Castillo

August 2024 Station 26, 03A2 Joel Rodriguez-Loria Teremaine Witter Brendan Quinn Joel Rosado

November 2024 Station 16, 86M2 John Scanlon Annmarie Lavelle Roan Lanigan Amber Scheib December 2024 Station 7, 07D3 Kyle Arcuri Nicole Carlson McKenzie Freiler

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PAR Dieonna Williams (2) EMT Jerome Williams (1) ELT Shlomo Winkler (1) ELT Alexander Witkowski (1) ELT Donald Wolfe (3) EMT Dennis Wong (1) ELT Kam Wong (2) EMT Brian Woo (1) PAR Delilah Woods (1) PAR Jaron Wyche (1) EMT Nickoya Wynter (1) EMT Kevin Xian (1) PAR Weikai Xiang (2) EMT Alex Xie (1) PAR Gedion Yagudayev (1) PAR Oleg Yagudayev (2) EMT Yui Yeh Vaca (1) PAR Sung Jun Yoon (2) PAR Wayne Young Jr. (1) ELT Paul Yunek (3) PAR Roman Yusupov (3) ELT Mohmedidris Zanpawala (2) EMT Molei Zhang (1) PAR Ting Ting Zheng (1) PAR Ewelina Zielinska (1) PAR Martin Zienkowicz (1) EMT Andrew Zucker (1) PAR Marvin Zuniga (4)

2024 Fourth Quarter Station 4, 2 Teri Ann Cancetty Melas Gerald Stepanyk

MEDAL AND AWARD DONORS Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci, Jr. Medal & NYS Honorary Fire Chiefs Association Medal ince 1869, the FDNY has awarded annually a medal for the highest act of bravery by a firefighter or fire officer. In 2020, the James Gordon Bennett Medal was renamed in honor of Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci, Jr., the highest ranking uniformed member of the Department killed on September 11, 2001. Chief Ganci made the supreme sacrifice while leading the rescue efforts in response to the terrorists attacks at the World Trade Center. The Fire Foundation of New York, Inc., Kenneth Bronstein, president, and the NYS Honorary Fire Chief Association Glenn Zarogen, president, funds this award.

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Christopher J. Prescott Medal amed in honor of EMT Christopher Prescott, the first EMS member to make the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty in 1994, the Prescott Medal is the highest honor bestowed upon a member of the Bureau of EMS. Endowed by the Uniformed EMTs and Paramedics and Fire Inspectors Union.

Also endowed by former First Assistant Fire Commissioner Robert A. Ungar and his wife, Stacy Ungar.

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Brooklyn Citizens Medal & FF Louis Valentino Award n 1896, a committee of Brooklynites endowed this medal “to be given to the most deserving firefighter in the Brooklyn Fire Department, as he/she shall be selected by the Fire Department of the City of New York.” The Fire Foundation of New York, Inc., funds this award, Kenneth Bronstein, president. The recipient also is awarded the Firefighter Louis Valentino Award, a medal endowed since 1998 by Diane Valentino and the Valentino family. (Page 16)

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Yadira Arroyo Medal he Yadira Arroyo Medal is named for the courageous EMT who died in the line of duty in March of 2017. EMT Arroyo, a 14-year veteran of the FDNY, lost her life after she and her partner were overtaken by a combative patient who then struck her with their ambulance. This medal is awarded in her name to members of EMS who display extraordinary bravery. Awarded for the first time in 2022. Endowed by EMS Local 2507.

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Hugh Bonner Medal & Honor Legion Medal amed in honor of Chief Hugh Bonner, “a stalwart Chief of Department who preferred to rule by example.” The medal first was awarded in 1897.

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BC Thomas J. Neary Bronx/Harlem Firefighter Medal C Thomas J. Neary served the FDNY from 1963 to 1994 with high valor, dis-

tinction and honor. BC Neary worked in busy areas of the City, including East New York and Corona, but served the majority of his career in the South Bronx and Harlem. BC Neary was the first firefighter to be awarded the James Gordon Bennett Medal on two separate occasions for extraordinary acts of bravery. His sterling career is an example every member of the Department should try to emulate. The BC Thomas J. Neary Medal is endowed in 2024 by Friends and Brothers of Thomas J. Neary "to be awarded annually to a member of the Department whose distinguished service in the line of duty receives recognition of Class III or higher by the Board of Merit of the FDNY." (Page 19) Emily Trevor Mary B. Warren Medal hese sisters, in their deed of gift, wrote, “for the purpose of encouraging the members of the force in the exercise ... of heroic endeavor under circumstances of special danger.” Awarded for the first time in 1899.

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Thomas E. Crimmins Medal irst awarded in 1912. In memory of her father, Thomas E. Crimmins—contractor, builder, loyal New Yorker and son of a volunteer fireman—Mrs. May M. Burke provided for the endowment of the Crimmins Memorial Medal. Additional award from Honorary Fire Commissioner Dorothy Marks, in memory of Jeffrey S. Childs, great-great-grandson of Thomas Crimmins.

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dered by the firefighters is of a character held in high esteem by the people and to perpetuate the old fealty and admiration held by the late Henry D. Brookman for the FDNY.” First awarded in 1921. (Page 25) Chief Ulyses Grant Leadership Medal amed in honor of Chief Ulyses Grant, a 30-year veteran of the Emergency Medical Service, who exemplified respect, leadership, integrity, imagination, compassion and dedication. The recipient of this medal is an EMS officer who has the ability to influence others to accomplish the mission. The medal is awarded to an EMS officer who, in leading members under his/ her command, has performed an outstanding act of heroism and bravery in the line of duty. The award is endowed by Chief of EMS Operations Robert A. McCracken (retired) and EMS Division Chief Robert P. Browne (retired), who believe a man’s experience and wisdom need not die with him, but become his legacy.

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Hispanic Society 23rd Street Fire Memorial Medal of Valor ndowed/funded by the Hispanic Society as “a memorial tribute to the 12 brother firefighters who made the supreme sacrifice at the East 23rd Street fire on October 17, 1966.” The Hispanic Society Memorial Medal first was awarded in 1968. An honorarium in memory of Battalion Chief Anthony Mendez Sr. is given to the medal recipient.

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Thomas A. Kenny Memorial Medal onorary Deputy Chief William F. Kenny endowed this medal in memory of his father, a battalion chief who served in the Department, faithfully and conspicuously, from 1876 until 1903. It is given as a “perpetual token of zeal and enduring interest.” First awarded in 1918. Funded by the Honorary Fire Officers Association of the FDNY. (Page 22)

Michael J. Delehanty Medal he founder and dean of civil service schools bearing his name endowed this medal in 1937, “to be awarded annually to a member of the Department whose distinguished service in the line of duty receives recognition by the Board of Merit of the Fire Department.”

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Walter Scott Medal olonel Walter Scott, a successful New York merchant, was intensely interested in the City’s protective forces. In 1920, he endowed a medal for valor bearing his name to be awarded annually to a member of the FDNY. The Fire Foundation of New York, Inc., funds this award, Kenneth Bronstein, president.

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John H. Prentice Medal his medal is endowed by Mrs. Marion Prentice Brookman in memory of her father. The medal is for “an act of intelligent bravery.” First awarded in 1921. (Page 24)

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Henry D. Brookman Medal rs. Marion Prentice Brookman, in endowing this award, wrote, “to help the authorities in installing into the Department the fact that the service ren-

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Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia Medal he Honorable Fiorello H. LaGuardia, while the mayor, frequently “turned out” at large fires. He had a keen interest in the problems of fire prevention and extinguishment. First awarded in 1937.

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William F. Conran Medal onorary Chief Conran endowed this medal in 1937. His profession of fire protection engineer enabled him to improve the efficiency of firefighting appliances.

Sponsored in memory of Honorary Battalion Chief Paul Sanner.

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Chief John J. McElligott Medal & FFs Fitzpatrick and Frisby Award amed in honor of the late Chief and Fire Commissioner Chief McElligott.

He joined the Department in 1905 and retired in 1941 after a long and fruitful career. This medal was endowed

by William F. Conran and first awarded

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in 1937. Recipient also is awarded the Fitzpatrick and Frisby Award, a medallion endowed by the Fitzpatrick and Frisby Foundation, in memory of these two firefighters who made the supreme sacrifice. The UFA funds this award. Recipient is awarded cash, donated by the Brian F. Mulheren family in memory of his father, Joseph A. Mulheren, a friend of the FDNY. (Page 31) Thomas F. Dougherty Medal hief Dougherty served with the Department from 1888 to 1933 with distinction and honor. In addition to inventing the nozzle that bears his name, he was a colorful member of the Fire College faculty, where he specialized in teaching the technique and efficacy of ventilation. First awarded in 1937.

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Bella Stiefel Medal n Mrs. Stiefel’s 90 years, she came to admire the bravery displayed by firefighters. Medal was first awarded in 1947. Endowed by Mrs. Stiefel and the Uniformed Firefighters Association. An honorarium is provided by Michael Zorek and Jennifer Zorek-Pressman to also honor their parents, Jane and Warren Zorek. (Page 33)

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Tracy Allen-Lee Medal MT Allen-Lee is nationally recognized as the first EMS professional in the country to be awarded the Public Safety Officer’s Benefit by the United States Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance, after dying from a communicable disease sustained in the line of duty. Endowed by the Uniformed EMTs and Paramedics and Fire Inspectors Union. Also endowed by former First Assistant Fire Commissioner Robert A. Ungar and his wife, Stacy Ungar.

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Vincent J. Kane Medal his medal is named in honor of the late Vincent J. Kane, labor leader and longtime president of the Uniformed Firefighters Association. Endowed by the UFA. (Page 35)

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Pulaski Association Medal ndowed by the Pulaski Association of the FDNY in memory of General Casimir Pulaski. At the direction of George Washington, General Pulaski founded the American cavalry during the American Revolution. He died of wounds received leading the charge at the Battle of Savannah. The medal is presented to a member who has upheld the Department’s tradition of bravery, valor and service to the citizens of the City of New York in the way that General Pulaski did for our country.

First awarded in 1962. Cash award is donated by Honorary Assistant Chief Gary Urbanowicz.

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Commissioner Edward Thompson Medal his medal, in honor of Commissioner Edward Thompson, was endowed in 1964 by the late Bertram Brummer and his wife, Susie. It is to be awarded to a member exhibiting outstanding courage and fidelity. By endowing this, a second medal, they illustrate their high regard and affection for the Department.

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Columbia Association Medal ndowed by the Columbia Association since 1966. Medal is awarded in memory of retired Fire Marshal Thomas J. Russo Sr. (Page 38)

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Susan Wagner Medal ndowed by the UFA to honor the memory of Mrs. Susan Wagner, wife of the former mayor of the City of New York, and to perpetuate the high esteem in which she held the firefighters of the City of New York. This medal is awarded to a member of the Department who has performed an outstanding act of valor. First awarded in 1966. The UFA also endows this medal in memory of the late assemblywoman Eileen Dugan, a prime sponsor of the Cancer Bill.

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Steuben Association Medal ndowed by the Steuben Association in honor of General Frederick Wilhelm Von Steuben. First awarded in 1967. Endowed by the Fire Department Steuben Association Charities, Inc. (Page 40)

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Chief James Scullion Medal ecognized as a pioneer in his field, Chief James Scullion was instrumental in bringing both basic and advanced life support services into the modern-day emergency medical system in the City of New York in the early 1970s. His dedication and commitment to excellence are memorialized through this award. Sponsored by the EMS Superior Officers Association.

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Dr. J.W. Goldenkranz Medal ndowed in 1975 by the late Dr. J.W. Goldenkranz, Honorary Assistant Chief, to honor “the heroic efforts of the Officers and Firefighters, of whom perform their duties at extreme personal risk”. Dr. Goldenkranz was affiliated with the FDNY since 1913 and was a past president of the New York Firefighters’ Cycle Club, which is an affiliated FDNY organization. The New York Firefighters’ Cycle Club stands committed to supporting the FDNY and fulfilling Dr. Goldenkranz's wishes by sponsoring this medal.

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Uniformed Fire Officers Association Medal ndowed in 1977 by the Uniformed Fire Officers Association “for an act of heroism and bravery performed by a fire officer at a fire.”

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William and Gertrude Friedberg Medal he William & Gertrude Friedberg Medal was first awarded in 1996. Bill was a respected and beloved elementary school principal working with the children of New York City. His wife, Gertrude, was an elementary school teacher. Together they spent well over half a century instilling a love of learning in their students, with the knowledge that early education and instruction were the key to success and fire prevention. The recipient of this award will receive an award presented by their children and grandchildren.

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American Legion Fire Dept. Post 930 Mark M. Wohlfeld Memorial Medal ndowed by American Legion Post 930, this medal is in memory of Mark M. Wohlfeld, a lifelong member of the Fire Department Post, a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves and a retired FDNY firefighter. The history of this intrepid warrior’s exploits is related graphically in the second and third issues of WNYF (1945). After his retirement from the FDNY, he continued to serve his country and his fellow man by working for the Veterans Administration. He died on May 24, 1978, and is interred in Arlington National Cemetery.

First awarded in 1979.

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Arthur J. Laufer Memorial Medal he Laufer Medal, presented for the first time in 1980, is named in honor and memory of the late Deputy Chief Arthur J. “Artie” Laufer, who continually showed his love for firefighters and his fellow man through his actions. Endowed by the UFA and the family of retired Deputy Director of Dispatch Operations Joseph E. Higgins Jr. (Page 46)

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Emerald Society Pipes and Drums Medal his medal, endowed by the members of the Pipes and Drums of the FDNY Emerald Society Bagpipe Band, is awarded to a member of the Department who performs an outstanding act of heroism in keeping with the FDNY’s highest traditions. First awarded in 1981. Recipient is awarded cash, donated by Matthew, Susan and Alana Daly.

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Company Officers Association Medal ndowed by the Company Officers Association (COA) in memory of company officers in the FDNY who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Medal was awarded for the first time in 1982. It is donated this year by Battalion Chief John Dunne, Battalion 2, a former COA board member.

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Edith B. Goldman Medal ndowed by the many friends of the late Honorary Deputy Chief Barney Goldman to honor the memory of both his wife, Edith, and him and to illustrate the high re-

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gard and affection he held for FDNY members. First awarded in 1978.

(Page 49) Lieutenant Kirby McElhearn Medal dedicated professional with a passion for communications, Lieutenant McElhearn is remembered for his instrumental involvement in the research and development of the first modern-day Field Communications Unit (FieldComm) for EMS. Sponsored in memory of Honorary Battalion Chief Paul Sanner.

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Chief Joseph B. Martin Medal he Martin Medal is endowed in honor of the legendary Assistant Chief Joseph B. “Smokey Joe” Martin, who served the FDNY with “fidelity and devotion” for 47 years. Awarded for the first time in 1984. $1,000 is donated by the Martin and Canning families in memory of Frances B. Martin (1905-1996), daughter of “Smokey Joe” Martin. $100 is donated in memory of Firefighter Anthony D. Buccieri, Engine 75. $100 is donated in memory of Firefighter Mike Donnelly, Ladder 33, who died in 1983 after a heroic battle with cancer. $100 is donated in memory of Battalion Chief William C. Rinsdale, 19th Battalion, who died in the line of duty in 1971.

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Police Honor Legion Medal he Police Honor Legion Medal is endowed by the New York City Police Department Honor Legion. It was first awarded in 1984.

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Firefighter David J. DeFranco Medal n honor of the memory of FF David J. DeFranco for his dedicated efforts on behalf of the FDNY. This medal, awarded for a water-related rescue, is in memory of David’s father, FF Dan DeFranco. FF Dan DeFranco was assigned to Engine Co. 17 and Ladder Co. 18 on the Lower East Side for more than 33 years during a period of extremely heavy fire duty. FF Dan DeFranco also served on the executive board of the UFA for eight years at the post of sergeant at arms with honor, dedication and devotion to his brother firefighters. (Page 53)

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Lieutenant James E. ZahnLieutenant Peter L. Troiano Memorial Medal he Lieutenant James E. Zahn/Lieutenant Peter L. Troiano Memorial Medal has been established in honor of these two beloved “brothers” who laid down their lives for the people of the City of New York. This medal is awarded to a member of the Department who has performed an act of bravery in the protection of life and/or property while either on or off duty. Endowed by the members of Engine Company 277 and Ladder Company 112.

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Deputy Commissioner Christine R. Godek Medal stablished and endowed by Honorary Fire Commissioner Dorothy W. Marks and the late Honorary First Deputy Commissioner Shelly Rothman in honor of Christine R. Godek, the first female deputy fire commissioner of the FDNY. Presented annually to an outstanding New York City fire marshal for unusual display of initiative, improving techniques, resourcefulness and capability in the investigation of arson.

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Probationary Firefighter Thomas A. Wylie Medal his medal is endowed by the members of Ladder Company 18 in honor of their fallen brother, Probationary Firefighter Thomas A. Wylie, who gave his life assisting in the rescue of more than 20 civilians at a fire in Chinatown. The medal is awarded to a probationary firefighter who distinguishes himself as Tom did in his brief career. The medal depicts his caricature of a “can man,” the traditional position of a “proby.”

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Shelly Rothman Memorial Medal his medal is dedicated to honoring all firefighters who have performed with valor. Awarded for the first time in 2005. Endowed by the members of the New York State Honorary Fire Chiefs Association, Inc., and the Fire Bell Club of New York, in memory of Shelly Rothman, a longtime member and chairman of the Board of Directors.

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Jack Pintchik Medal ollowing successful resuscitation from cardiac arrest by EMS paramedics, Jack Pintchik, founder of the Pintchik Home Improvement Stores, honored members of EMS by establishing the first formalized EMS Awards & Recognition ceremony. In his memory, the Pintchik family continues to show their respect and support of EMS professionals through the Jack Pintchik Medal.

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Captain Alison Russo North Star Medal amed in honor of Captain Alison Russo, a 24-year veteran officer and rescue medic who was killed in the line of duty September 29, 2022. This award recognizes an FDNY EMS officer who, in the performance of duty, performs an act of distinguished bravery and stamina under adverse or extreme conditions. This award is endowed by Deputy Chief (ret.)

Zachary Goldfarb in memory of Captain Russo, a "North Star" who, through her life of service to the citizens of New York City, exemplified leadership through responsibility, tenacity, resilience, decisiveness, compassion and courage.

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Dr. Sheldon Jacobson Award reated in 2025 to mark 50 years of paramedicine in New York City, the Dr. Sheldon Jacobson Award—An Extraordinary Medal honors the legacy of Dr. Sheldon Jacobson, the visionary who launched NYC's first paramedic program at Jacobi Hospital in the Bronx in 1974.

Widely recognized as the father of the City's EMS paramedic program, Dr. Jacobson was a trailblazer in emergency medicine—a bold leader, devoted mentor and tireless advocate for advancing pre-hospital care, as well as emergency medicine training and education. Presented annually, the Dr. Sheldon Jacobson Award recognizes a paramedic who demonstrates stellar, advanced life-saving skills and service.

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Lieutenant James Curran New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation Medal he New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation is an organization committed to the goals of quality burn care and fundraising endeavors. Similarly, the FDNY is engaged in safeguarding and improving the quality of life for City residents. It is this semblance of purpose and collaborative spirit that is deserving of recognition. With this in mind, the New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation awards a medal to the most worthy of units in appreciation of “a concentrated, super effort based on teamwork.” Endowed by the New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation and Dr. Marc Kramer, honorary assistant chief and consultant to the Medical Division.

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Firefighter Thomas R. Elsasser Memorial Medal ndowed by the Uniformed Firefighters Association, this medal is named in honor of Firefighter Thomas R. Elsasser, a 20-year veteran of the FDNY, whose firefighting career was cut short in 1990 by his untimely death. Firefighter Elsasser was a major contributor to UFA charity sporting events.

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World Trade Center Memorial Medal stablished to honor the bravery and courage of the 343 FDNY members who made the supreme sacrifice on September 11, 2001, at the World Trade Center. This "company of the year" award is endowed by the 9/11 parents and families.

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5-5-5-5

Died in the Line of Duty

SUPERVISING FIRE MARSHAL GEORGE E. SNYDER JR. BFI Special Operations Command Died on August 10, 2024, as a result of injuries sustained while operating at Brooklyn Box 0281.

Appointed to the FDNY on May 5, 2002.

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Notes

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