2026 FDNY Medal Day

157th

MEDAL DAY

Honoring Members of the Fire Department, City of New York

June 3

2026

MEDAL DAY PUBLICATION

F.D.

DEPUTY COMMISSIONER PUBLIC INFORMATION Amanda Farinacci

N.Y.

DIGITAL & MEDIA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Joseph D. Malvasio

DIGITAL & MEDIA DIRECTOR Sharon Parhiala

MEDAL BOARD

MANAGING EDITOR

Lillian Bonsignore

Captain Jack Cassidy Lieutenant Dennis McCutchen Lieutenant Daniel Walsh EMT Melody Avella

John M. Esposito

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Kristin Eng

MEDAL DESK

Fire Commissioner

Ana Cortes

Chief of Department

COPY EDITOR Lauren LaLonde

Kevin F. Woods

Chief of Fire Operations

Paul Miano

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

Bravely Serving Since 1865

WRITERS

EMT Gillian Axtens Deputy Chief Daniel Barvels Deputy Chief Michael Barvels Clare Bourke Captain Kirk T. Candan Captain Dustin Carter Fire Marshal Billy Chen Firefighter Joseph Dunnigan Captain Nick Graziano FAD Brian Grogan Nicholas L. Guss Lieutenant Steve Interdonati Lieutenant Benedict P. Jacobellis Chief Fire Marshal Michael J. Kavanagh Captain Kyra King Captain Randy Li Battalion Chief Ralph L. Longo Firefighter Thomas McPherson Firefighter Thomas Morrison Andrew O'Brien Firefighter Matthew Paglione Deputy Chief Natalia Polunin Firefighter Jason Powell EMT Michael Quezada Captain Brendan Ryan Captain Jason Sutherland Captain Paul Zahra

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHERS

Front cover: December 9, 2025—Units observed heavy fire on the top floor and through the roof at this fourth alarm, Manhattan Box 1312. Firefighter James Lafferty (Engine 76, det. Ladder 22) receives the John H. Prentice Medal for saving a victim at this fire. (Photo by then-Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker)

Photos provided by medal recipients unless otherwise noted

Back cover: Members of EMS Station 4's Gator unit rescued several swimmers in two separate incidents on a busy Independence Day on Rockaway Beach.

(Photos by Command Tactical Unit)

Chief Fire Marshal Michael J. Kavanagh and the Bureau of Fire Investigation

Randy Barron Lt. Roy Ciofalo

SPECIAL THANKS

Matthew T. Talty Deputy General Counsel Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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June 3, 2026

My fellow New Yorkers: It is an honor to welcome you to the New York City Fire Department’s annual Medal Day celebration.

Today we recognize the extraordinary courage, compassion, and dedication of the members of the FDNY who put service above self every single day.

In moments of crisis and uncertainty, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and officers answer the call without hesitation. They protect our neighbors and loved ones, care for New Yorkers in their most difficult moments, and remind us what public service can look like at its very best.

New York City has always been defined by the people who show up for one another across every borough, neighborhood, and block. For 160 years, the FDNY has embodied that spirit. Its members represent the very best of our City: bravery, sacrifice, and resilience. They are united in the belief that every New Yorker deserves safety, dignity, and support.

Medal Day gives us the opportunity to recognize acts of heroism that so often happens quietly — lives saved, families protected, and communities comforted in moments of fear and uncertainty.

We are deeply grateful for the courage shown on extraordinary days, and for the steady dedication shown every day in service to this city.

On behalf of the people of New York City, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to this year’s honorees and my deepest gratitude to the entire FDNY family. Your service makes this city stronger, safer, and more united.

Best wishes for a meaningful and memorable celebration.

Sincerely,

Zohran Kwame Mamdani Mayor Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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FIRE COMMISSIONER

I

Lillian Bonsignore

n a city like New York, anything can happen. At the Fire Department, we know that because we see it every single day. That’s why, as an all-hazards public safety agency, the FDNY is prepared to respond to emergencies of every kind, under every imaginable circumstance. Hazardous weather. Technological failures. Situations that escalate in a moment. It is precisely in these times that the FDNY performs at its peak—when training, experience, teamwork and composure under pressure all kick in simultaneously. Time and again, our members adapt to evolving situations, keep their focus despite uncertainty and carry out every mission with professionalism and determination. Medal Day—and this book—is a celebration of all of that, as we recognize the outstanding rescues our members accomplished and highlight the occasions our firefighters, EMTs and paramedics were measured, quick-thinking and brave. We are so grateful for those who did this exemplary work. They define what it means to be part of the FDNY, and they have earned 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 Lieutenant Patrick T. Donlon of Engine 75. Lieutenant Donlon put himself at great personal risk while operating at a Bronx fire where there were reports of multiple people trapped. He was able to battle a fire fueled by a door left open and heavy clutter to successfully remove a victim from the fire-involved apartment. He turned the victim over to EMS and then returned to the building to extinguish the flames.

Our highest award for a meritorious act for members of EMS Operations is the Christopher J. Prescott Medal, awarded to a pair of Brooklyn paramedics who were responding to a call when they witnessed flames blowing out of an apartment building. Paramedic Naytasha Doyle and Paramedic Paul Saladis (now a probationary firefighter) quickly called in an active fire and started evacuating people from the building. While assisting residents on the second floor, they met a resident whose family was trapped in one of the apartments. Their swift actions led arriving firefighters to their door and safely removed them from the building. One of those residents was suffering prolonged exposure to smoke, and Paramedics Doyle and Saladis administered the medications that brought the victim back to life. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of both FDNY Fire and EMS units, two lives were saved.

These stories are just skimming the top of the heroism you will read about in these pages. These efforts are truly remarkable. Our members prove time and again that they are dedicated to their training and will do whatever is necessary to save lives. This year, we have new medals for bravery and life-saving efforts, with new recognition of fire prevention efforts and dispatchers. Every corner of the Department boasts people who are aligned in purpose and mission, and we celebrate them today.

As we prepare to mark 25 years since the September 11th attacks, we reflect on the bravery and service that keep our Department going. Today, as then, our members are relentless in pursuit of our life-saving mission. They operate with courage, compassion and dedication. Every day. For this, we are deeply appreciative, and we thank you for your service. Congratulations to all this year’s honorees. Your work is exceptional and truly inspiring.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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CHIEF OF DEPARTMENT

M

John M. Esposito

edal Day is one of the most meaningful traditions in the FDNY. It gives us the chance to pause and recognize the extraordinary work our members do in moments when there is no time to hesitate. In the middle of fire, smoke, danger, chaos and uncertainty, FDNY firefighters, EMTs, paramedics and officers continue to show what service to others truly means.

The members honored in this book will likely say they were simply doing their job. But their actions reflect something greater: a deep commitment to duty, to one another and to the people of New York City.

Former Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci wrote in the 2001 Medal Day book, “The greatness of this Department is based on the individual effort of each of its members acting as one.” As we approach the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, we remember Chief Ganci and the other members who made the supreme sacrifice that day. Their courage and devotion to duty are the foundation of this Department, and his words still echo the spirit of the FDNY that lives on today. Each medal in this book reflects members acting with individual bravery and as part of a team.

In June 2025, a fifth alarm was transmitted for a rapidly spreading fire in the Bronx. Members from Rescue 3 heard a firefighter’s Vibra-Alert and realized they were unresponsive. Two Rescue 3 firefighters began bringing the unconscious firefighter to safety in intensifying fire conditions. Ladder 56 and Rescue 3 coordinated the firefighter’s rapid removal to waiting EMS members.

Having heard the mayday, EMS Lieutenant Brian Cotiaux immediately recognized the severity of the situation. Upon the removal of the injured firefighter, he directed paramedics to administer life-saving treatment and interventions for severe smoke inhalation. A few days later, the firefighter was discharged from the hospital to tremendous applause from fellow members. For their actions, Lieutenant Joseph R. Light is awarded the Hugh Bonner & Honor Legion Medal, Lieutenant Brian W. Cotiaux is awarded the Captain Alison Russo North Star Medal, Firefighter Peter C. Constantine is awarded the BC Thomas J. Neary Bronx/Harlem Firefighter Medal and Ladder 56 is awarded the World Trade Center Memorial Medal.

This rescue is an excellent example of the teamwork among Fire and EMS members that makes the FDNY so extraordinary.

Twenty-five years after September 11, and 160 years into the history of this Department, FDNY members are still operating with bravery and purpose. They are still forcing doors, climbing stairs, searching smoke-filled rooms, treating the injured, comforting families and making split-second decisions in the most dangerous conditions imaginable.

The stories in this Medal Day book remind us that the strength of the FDNY has always come from our people— individual members acting with courage, discipline and heart, but always as one FDNY. To all of this year’s medal recipients: Thank you for your continued commitment to the life-saving mission of the FDNY.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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FIRST DEPUTY COMMISSIONER

CHIEF OF STAFF

Daniel Flynn

Fabricio Caro

DEPUTY COMMISSIONERS

Lizette Christoff

Management & Budget

Barbara Dannenberg

Amanda Farinacci

Human Capital

Don Nguyen

General Counsel & Legal Affairs

Public Information

Dr. David J. Prezant

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

Jason Shelly External Affairs

ASSOCIATE COMMISSIONERS

Jeremy Brooks

Nafeesah Noonan

Support Services

Workforce Development

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Charles Jackson

Technology Development & Systems

ASSISTANT COMMISSIONERS

Paul DeRocchis

Facilities Management

Nicholas Lamberti Communications

Dominique Joseph

Barry Greenspan

Family Assistance

Procurement & Fiscal Services

Hilit Tolani

Corina Leske

Equal Employment Opportunity

Deputy General Counsel

Alex Gjoni Thompson Fire Prevention

Kevin Williams

Candidate Investigation

CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICERS

Dr. Glenn H. Asaeda

Christine Kakoulas

Chief Medical Director Office of Medical Affairs

Lyne Geneste-Castro Deputy Chief Medical Officer Bureau of Health Services

Chief Medical Officer Bureau of Health Services

Dr. Douglas Isaacs

Dr. Bradley Kaufman

Deputy Chief Medical Director Office of Medical Affairs

First Deputy Medical Director Office of Medical Affairs

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Dr. Jayson Park

Deputy Chief Medical Officer Clinical Director WTC Health Program

CHIEF OFFICERS

Kevin F. Woods

Paul Miano

Chief of Fire Operations

John Sarrocco Assistant Chief of Fire Operations

Thomas Currao

Chief of EMS Operations

Kevin Brennan Assistant Chief Fire Operations

Cesar Escobar Assistant Chief EMS Operations

Chief of Fire Prevention

Kathleen Knuth Assistant Chief EMS Operations

Michael Meyers Assistant Chief Training

CHIEF FIRE MARSHAL

Malcolm Moore Chief of Special Operations

Michael Woods

Michael Kavanagh Chief Fire Marshal

Assistant Chief Fire Operations

CHAPLAINS Monsignor Marc Filacchione

Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello

Father Joseph Hoffman

Reverend Pamela Holmes

Father Frederick Pellegrini

Rabbi Joseph Potasnik

Father Peter Purpura

Reverend V. Simpson Turner Jr.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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BOROUGH COMMANDERS

Joseph Duggan Assistant Chief Brooklyn

Joseph Schiralli

Brian Gorman

Assistant Chief Queens

Tonya Boyd

Deputy Assistant Chief Brooklyn & Staten Island

David Simms

Assistant Chief Manhattan

Stacy Scanlon

Assistant Chief Staten Island

Deputy Assistant Chief Bronx

Christopher Ritchie Deputy Assistant Chief Bronx

Joseph Pataky

Deputy Assistant Chief Manhattan & Queens

DEPUTY ASSISTANT CHIEFS

Grace Cacciola EMS Operations

Timothy Keenan Chief of Fire Academy

James Canty

James Carney

Paul Miller

Ian Swords

Chief of Safety

Fire Prevention

Chief of EMS Academy

Counterterrorism & Emergency Preparedness

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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John Corcoran

Deputy Manhattan Borough Commander

Denise Werner

Emergency Medical Dispatch

DIVISION COMMANDERS

Kevin Murphy Fire Division 1

Joseph Carlsen Fire Division 3

Russell Regan Fire Division 11

Nicholas Aiello EMS Division 1

EMS Division 6

Fire Division 6

Daniel Browne

EMS Division 2

William McCormack Fire Division 7

Mark A. Cuccurullo

Fire Division 13

Natalia Polunin

Patrick Flynn

James Donlevy

Fire Division 14

Laitrice Edwards EMS Division 3

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Fire Division 15

EMS Division 4

EMS Division 8

EMS Division 7

Fire Division 8

James Smithwick

Nancy Gilligan

Martin Braun

John Nevins

Joseph Harris

Luis Basso

EMS Division 5

Robert Hannafey EMS Division 9

DIVISION CHIEFS

Christopher J. Bilz Hospital Liaison Unit

Cheryl Middleton Mental Health Response Unit

Mark Bonilla

EMS Special Operations

Richard Bracken

EMS Safety Command

Dinorah Claudio

Bureau of Health Services

John Eyzaguirre Voluntary Unit

Charles Morgan

Farooq Muhammad

Joseph Sanders

Joseph Downey

Francis Simpson Chief of Marine Operations

Joseph Loftus

Chief of Hazmat Operations

Brian Minardo

Joseph Cavaretta

Thomas S. Tanzosh

EMS Communications PSAC 1

Chief of Rescue Operations

Chief of Planning

EMS Communications PSAC 2

Uniformed Personnel

EMS FDOC

Uniformed Personnel

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Kahlia Graham EMS Academy

Evan Suchecki

Strategic Initiatives

INDEX OF MEDALS AND RECIPIENTS

Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci, Jr. Medal & NYS Honorary Fire Chiefs Association Medal Lt. Patrick T. Donlon, E-75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Hispanic Society/23rd Street Fire Memorial Medal of Valor FF Donal F. Finnegan, L-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Chief James Scullion Medal FF Joseph A. Marino (for incident while EMT, Sta. 40) EMT Vincent J. Polizzi, Sta. 40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Christopher J. Prescott Medal Paramedic Naytasha M. Doyle Probationary Firefighter Paul T. Saladis III (for incident while EMT) Sta. 44 . 15

Captain Denis W. Lane Memorial Medal FF Patrick G. Corrigan, L-165 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Brooklyn Citizens Medal & FF Louis Valentino Award FF Matthew L. Gildersleeve, L-147 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Uniformed Fire Officers Association Medal Lt. Joseph J. Murphy Jr., L-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Hugh Bonner Medal & Honor Legion Medal Lt. Joseph R. Light, R-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Dr. Albert A. Cinelli Medal FF Brendan J. Byrne, L-55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Yadira Arroyo Medal FF Saverio J. Bosco Jr. (for incident while EMT), FF Christopher S. Nigro (for incident while EMT), EMT Miguel A. Soto Jr., EMT Michael Spalletta, Sta. 47 . . . . . . 18

Fire Chiefs Association Memorial Medal FF Salvatore D. Rignola, L-109 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

BC Thomas J. Neary Bronx/Harlem Firefighter Medal FF Peter C. Constantine, R-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Lt. Kirby McElhearn Medal EMT Keenan W. Barrant, EMT Shafeeza Mangru, PSAC 1 . . . . . 46

Emily Trevor/Mary B. Warren Medal FF Timothy B. McGuire, R-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

BC Frank T. Tuttlemondo Medal FF Matthew S. Jezycki, L-172 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Thomas E. Crimmins Medal FF Michal Prokop, M-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Dr. John F. Connell Medal FF Christopher M. Colleran, Sq-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Thomas A. Kenny Memorial Medal FF Brian F. Mahoney, L-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Lt. John H. Martinson Medal FF Patrick R. Orlando, L-147 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Walter Scott Medal FF Daniel M. Sullivan, L-116 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Fire Bell Club Medal FF John P. Daly Jr., L-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

John H. Prentice Medal FF James M. Lafferty, E-76 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Firefighter David J. DeFranco Medal FF Eric A. Falk, E-265 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Henry D. Brookman Medal Lt. Frank A. Criscuolo, L-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Deputy Commissioner Christine R. Godek Medal SFM Bryan D. Fealy (for incident while FM, BFI CWN) FM Derek Harwood, BFI CWN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Chief Ulyses Grant Leadership Medal DC Joseph Nocerino, D-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Probationary Firefighter Thomas A. Wylie Medal FF John A. Palmer, L-144 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Michael J. Delehanty Medal Capt. Anthony Harper, D-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Firefighter Kevin C. Kane Medal Lt. James M. Corey (for incident while FF, L-6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia Medal Lt. Scott W. Ettinger, E-155 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Captain John J. Drennan Memorial Medal FF Alexander D. Raynor, L-37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

William F. Conran Medal FF Jason M. Perri, L-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Jack Pintchik Medal EMT Ryan C. Bonamici, EMT Matthew L. Michaels, Sta. 15 . . . 56

Chief John J. McElligott Medal & FFs Fitzpatrick and Frisby Award FF Michael N. Bonomo, L-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Captain Alison Russo North Star Medal Lt. Brian W. Cotiaux, EMS SOC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Thomas F. Dougherty Medal FF Timothy P. Donlon, L-175 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Dr. Sheldon Jacobson Award PFF Michael T. Ortiz (for incident while paramedic, Sta. 8) . . . . 58

Albert S. Johnston Medal Lt. Thomas R. Murphy, L-175 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Commissioner Robert S. Tucker Fire Dispatcher Medal FAD Scott G. Hanratty, CADO Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Tracy Allen-Lee Medal Capt. Alexander Khalef, Sta. 4; and Paramedic Jose D. Parra, Paramedic Paul Yoon (for incident while in Sta. 4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire Memorial Medal CI Joseph Rogers, DCI Jose R. Martinez (for incident while SI), SI Steven Beras BFP SIU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Vincent J. Kane Medal FF John J. Berger II, L-122 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Lt. James Curran/New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation Medal, Engine Company 46 Capt. Robert A. Wilson, FF Christopher J. Garcia, FF Andrew P. Hieb, FF Eric D. Reilly, FF Brian A. White . . . . . . . 61

Brummer Medal FF Mark Hershey, R-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Emerald Society Medal FF Alfred J. Ronaldson, R-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Firefighter Thomas R. Elsasser Memorial Medal, Rescue Company 2 Capt. Liam J. Flaherty, FF Peter J. Brady, FF Mark D. Checkett, FF Douglas J. Gaynor, FF George Jacimovic, FF Cameron A. Peek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Holy Name Society Medal FF Daniel P. Strauss, L-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Chief Wesley Williams Medal FF Thomas J. Miele, L-133 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

World Trade Center Memorial Medal, Ladder Company 56 Lt. Patrick T. Mataraza III, FF James V. Dadabo Jr., FF Patrick F. Donohue, FF Kevin D. Fleming, Ner Tamid Society/Franklin Delano Roosevelt Medal Lt. Scott R. Altman, Sq-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 FF Thomas Mastracchio (E-88), FF John P. Tatti (E-88) . . . . . . . 63 Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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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) 2025—­Firefighter Michael D. Kotzo (L-28)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci Jr.

Firefighter Michael D. Kotzo

TOP FIRE OPERATIONS MEDAL RECIPIENT

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

NYS Honorary Fire Chiefs Association Medal

Lieutenant Patrick T. Donlon Engine Company 75

October 8, 2025, 1607 hours, Box 75-3181, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on December 11, 2017. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 257 and Tower Ladder Co. 170 as a firefighter. Holds an associate degree in fire science from Nassau Community College. Member of FDNY Emerald Society. Father, Firefighter Timothy Donlon, is assigned to Ladder 175 and is receiving the Thomas F. Dougherty Medal at this ceremony. Grandfather, Lt. James McCarthy (deceased), retired from Marine 1; stepgrandfather, Fire Marshal Edward Mcglone, is retired. Numerous uncles and cousins serve(d) the Department.

Resides in Wantagh, New York, with wife Katie and daughter Maeve.

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n October 8, 2025, at 1607 hours, Enfirst bedroom on the right and was spreading gine Company 75 was returning to into the hallway. Lieutenant Donlon crouched quarters from a previous emergency down to his stomach in an attempt to close when they were assigned to respond to a the bedroom door and isolate the fire. Howreported fire with possible people trapped ever, due to heavy clutter in the hallway and at Bronx Box 3181, a six-story apartment bedroom, he was unable to do so. building. Engine 75 was only a few blocks With little time left before conditions away, so members knew they would arrive became completely untenable, Lieutenant well before other responding units and would Donlon quickly scanned down the hall toward be operating alone for a significant period. the bathroom and second bedroom with the Upon arrival, Lieutenant Patrick Donlon obthermal imaging camera, and he saw what apserved heavy smoke emanating from windows peared to be legs on the floor. He made a calcuover a scaffolding with numerous civilians attempting to lated, aggressive decision to quickly pass under venting evacuate. Panicked civilians frantically pointed to the third- fire where he came upon an unconscious, adult victim. He floor windows, stating that people were still trapped inside. immediately transmitted a 10-45 to Battalion 19. Using all Lieutenant Donlon proceeded into the building and ascend- his strength, and using his body to shield the victim from the ed the stairs to the third floor to locate the fire apartment. flames, Lieutenant Donlon removed the victim back through He ordered Engine 75 to begin stretching a hoseline to his the apartment and out into the public hallway. He handed location. With the door to the fire apartment left open by the victim off to arriving Engine Company 48 members who evacuating civilians, thick black smoke was forcefully pushing carried her down the stairs to the lobby to begin medical from the door, filling the public treatment for severe smoke inhahallway and the single interior lation. At this time, Ladder Comstairway with thick, acrid smoke. pany 33 arrived to continue the Unknown to Lieutenant Donlon aggressive primary search. Lieuat the time, the civilians on the tenant Donlon then regrouped scaffold were using 2-by-4 beams with his unit and reentered the to vent all three sets of windows apartment to extinguish the fire. in the fire apartment, mistakenly Lieutenant Donlon put himself thinking they were improving the at great personal risk while opersituation. In reality, the increased ating alone at this fire, crawling ventilation, without a hoseline past an uncontrolled fire to resoperating, only made the fire cue an unconscious civilian. Due much worse and caused a signifito his extraordinary effort, initiacant increase in intensity. tive and dedication to duty, LieuWith no ladder company yet tenant Patrick Donlon was able on scene, Lieutenant Donlon to successfully remove a victim entered the apartment under from the fire-involved apartment high heat and limited visibility and has undoubtedly upheld the to search for potential victims. highest traditions of the FDNY, Proceeding left, he passed the for which he receives the top fire Members of Engine 75 and Tower Ladder 33 who operated at Box 3181, kitchen and came upon a hallway. October 8, 2025. From left to right: Lt. Patrick Donlon (E-75), FF Patrick operations award: the Chief of Down the hall were two bed- Fiffe (L-33), FF Michael Bonomo (L-33), Lt. John Rodriguez (L-33), FF Department Peter J. Ganci, Jr. rooms and a bathroom. The fire Ron Kanasky (E-75), FF Michael Brogan (L-33), FF David Harris (E-75), FF and NYS Honorary Fire Chiefs AsJannerys Pichardo (L-33), FF Jeffery Scotto (E-42), FF Matthew Haughney had complete possession of the (E-75), FF Shaun Tolan (E-75) and BC Daniel Dimartino (Bn 19). sociation Medals.—MB Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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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.

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

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

2014—EMT Brendon Hernandez (Station 16) 1999—Paramedic Daniel Fink (Battalion 35) 2015—EMT Shawn Alexander (Station 58) EMT Khadijah Hall (Station 58)

2000—EMT Daniel E. Stewart (posthumously) EMT David Karic (Battalion 20)

2016—Lieutenant Michael C. Daddona (Station 50) 2001—EMT Gamaliel Bonilla (Battalion 31) 2017—EMT Ryan J. Gref (Station 4) 2003—EMT John Manning (Battalion 43) 2018—EMT Taylor T. Perez (Station 8) 2004—EMT Ronald G. Grubert (EMS Academy) EMT David T. Weissman (Station 50)

2019—Paramedic Jacqueline J. Benel (Station 14) 2020—Paramedic Niall C. O'Shaughnessy (Station 4) Paramedic Joshua S. Rodriguez (Station 4)

2005—EMT Ronald J. Johnson (Station 8) 2006—EMT Stephen A. Smith (Station 54)

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

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

2022—Lieutenant Paul A. Ardizzone (Haz-Tac) Paramedic Shewain Q. George (Station 32) Paramedic Hugh Smith III (Station 39)

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)

2023—Lieutenant Shlomo E. Winkler (Station 45) Paramedic Kira L. Watkins (Station 45) 2024—EMT Shawn M. Griffin (Station 45) EMT Emmanuel F. Titus (Station 45)

2010—Paramedic Margagret Vega (Station 20) 2025—EMT Amber M. Black (Station 43) EMT Mitchell Tarnapolsky (Station 43)

2011—EMT Kyle R. Barbaria (Station 26) EMT Edward Rodriguez (Station 20) 2012—Lieutenant Derrick C. Simpkins (Station 58) EMT James S. Hyams (Station 58)

EMT Christopher J. Prescott

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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TOP EMS OPERATIONS MEDAL RECIPIENTS

Christopher J. Prescott Medal December 23, 2025, 1645 hours, CAD 3872, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on October 15, 2018. Previously assigned to Station 59 and the Resource Coordination Center. Holds an associate degree in medical administration from Monroe College. Currently serving as a 17-year veteran of the U.S. Army Reserve. Recipient of four Pre-Hospital Saves, one Unit Citation and COVID-19 commendation. Member of the FDNY Caribbean Society.

Resides in Brooklyn with partner Anthony and son Dkquan.

Appointed to the FDNY on February 5, 2018. Promoted to probationary firefighter in March 2026 and is currently in Class 1 of 2026, attending FDNY Probationary Firefighter School.

Previously assigned to Station 43 from 2018–2022 (EMT) and Station 44 from 2022–2026 (paramedic). Recipient of two Unit Citations (2019, 2025), multiple Pre-Hospital Saves (2019, 2021, 2024, 2025) and an Excellence in Clinical Care (2023). Has multiple family members (cousins, uncles) who are firefighters. Resides in New York, New York, with wife Shannon and son Paul.

Paramedic Naytasha M. Doyle

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Probationary Firefighter Paul T. Saladis III

Station 44

Station 44

n December 23, 2025, Station 44 into the unit were unsuccessful, but the siparamedics Naytasha Doyle and Paul rens from FDNY apparatus signaled that adSaladis were 10 hours into their 12-hour ditional assistance had arrived on scene. The shift and heading to their seventh assignment. paramedics assured the distraught family memWhile responding, they witnessed the ominous signs ber that firefighters would find their loved ones, of flames and heavy smoke billowing out the second-floor then they guided the resident to safety and communiwindows of a large, multi-unit, four-story residential building in cated directly with the fire officer. Firefighters gained entry, Flatbush, Brooklyn. They knew immediate and the two missing family members were action was required and without hesitation recovered and removed from the building. notified Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) One family member was stable; howthat they were now on the scene of their ever, the other was found to be suffering eighth assignment, requesting additional refrom life-threatening conditions as a result sources for the active fire. of prolonged exposure to smoke. ParamedParamedics Doyle and Saladis providics Doyle and Saladis immediately began ed critical information to incoming units, advanced life-saving interventions and adincluding best access points for incoming ministered life-saving medications, which FDNY units, while donning their personal began reversing the cause of the patient’s protective equipment (PPE). With courage, critical condition. While being transported caution and commitment, they entered to the hospital, with the above interventions the building intent on assisting with its im- Paramedics Naytasha Doyle and Paul Saladis in place, the patient began showing signs of mediate evacuation. The spontaneous movement. The paramedics knew that the quick actions of Paramedics residents on the second Natasha Doyle and Paul Saladis floor—the floor most heavprevented an on-scene fatality. ily affected by smoke and Thanks to the concerted fire—were priority No. 1. and collaborative efforts of While assisting in the both FDNY Fire and EMS units, second-floor evacuation, two lives were saved. For their the medics found a civildemonstration of bravery, proian attempting to gain acactive approach and dedication, cess into the unit with the Paramedic Naytasha Doyle and heaviest smoke condition. now-Probationary Firefighter The distressed civilian rePaul Saladis III are awarded the layed that their family was Christopher J. Prescott Medtrapped inside. The med- Fire operations at Brooklyn Box 75-3748/CAD 3872 on December 23, 2025. al—the highest honor for FDNY ics’ attempts to gain entry (Photo by Brian Grogan) EMS Operations.—BR Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Brooklyn Citizens Medal & FF Louis Valentino Award Firefighter Matthew L. Gildersleeve Ladder Company 147

December 23, 2025, 1645 hours, Box 75-3748, Brooklyn

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Appointed to the FDNY on May 10, 2021. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 247. Holds a bachelor's degree in marketing from St. John’s University. Grandfather, Firefighter Robert Gildersleeve, retired from Engine Co. 204; father, Lt. Charles Gildersleeve, retired from Engine Co. 250 in 2012; brother, Firefighter Charles Gildersleeve Jr., is assigned to Ladder Co. 148. Resides on Staten Island and is engaged to be married to his fiancée, Danielle.

n the afternoon of December 23, 2025, the members of Ladder Company 147 were preparing their apparatus for the night tour when a verbal report of a fire at Box 3748 came over the Brooklyn fire radio frequency. While responding, the unit was informed that occupants were reported trapped on the second floor of a four-story, non-fireproof multiple dwelling.

Upon arrival, the crew were met by civilians confirming people trapped inside. Ladder 147’s inside team made their way up the interior stairway as numerous self-evacuating occupants made their way down, and a 10-75 was transmitted for fire on the second floor.

Captain Troy Taldone, Div. 15 covering officer, along with Firefighter Matthew Gildersleeve, assigned as the can firefighter, and FF Patrick Orlando, the forcible entry firefighter, reached the second floor and were immediately met by heavy smoke pushing under pressure from the fire apartment door.

After assisting FF Orlando in forcing entry, FF Gildersleeve entered the fire apartment into zero visibility, high heat and a severe clutter condition. As Captain Taldone located the main body of fire in the living room, Firefighter John Evans (Ladder 147, roof) transmitted that an occupant was visible at a courtyard window, trapped beyond the fire, and that a roof rope rescue was being prepared. With the life hazard confirmed and a charged hoseline not yet in position, FF Gildersleeve understood that waiting was not an option.

Conducting a left-handed search through heavy clutter, FF Gildersleeve crawled past the advancing fire and heard the distinct sounds of a person moaning down the hallway. He moved deeper into the hallway as the fire advanced out of

the living room, and he located an unconscious male victim lying face down in the hallway.

After transmitting the 10-45, FF Gildersleeve began removing the victim back through the congested hallway toward the apartment entrance, using his own body to shield the victim from the fire as it continued to spread. Upon reaching the apartment door, he passed the victim to waiting members who initiated immediate medical care. The victim was in critical condition and required drastic acute medical treatment, which the awaiting paramedics immediately administered before the victim was transported to the hospital.

Firefighter Matthew Gildersleeve located an unconscious victim under severe conditions and unquestionably saved a life through his courage, composure and decisive actions. His conduct on December 23 reflects the highest traditions of the Fire Department of the City of New York, for which he is awarded the Brooklyn Citizens Medal and FF Louis Valentino Award.—JP

December 23, 2025: Operations at Brooklyn Box 75-3748. (Photo by Brian Grogan)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Hugh Bonner Medal & Honor Legion Medal Lieutenant Joseph R. Light Rescue Company 3

June 22, 2025, 1924 hours, Box 55-3360, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on December 9, 1985. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 20, Squad Co. 61 and Rescue Co. 3 as a firefighter and Rescue Co. 5 as a lieutenant. Recipient of four Unit Citations while in Ladder Co. 20 (2x), Rescue Co. 5 and Rescue Co. 3. Member of the FDNY Emerald Society. Brother, Firefighter Harvey Light, retired from Ladder Co. 20. Resides in Middletown, New York, with wife Valerie. His children are Amanda and Brian, and he has a grandchild, Stella.

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n the evening of June 22, 2025, Rescue Company 3 gled in a metal shelving unit, which FF Constantine quickly diswas dispatched to Box 3360 for a reported fire in a entangled. As they neared the stairwell, the firefighter became two-and-a-half-story private dwelling with a peaked combative from disorientation, pulling away and grabbing at roof. As the company arrived, heavy flames were already con- FF Constantine’s face piece, nearly tearing it off. FF Constansuming several e-bikes burning on the front porch, spreading tine held firm, dragging him to the half-landing. rapidly up the front of the building. The fire had extended to In his confusion, the firefighter attempted to climb out a winexposure 2 and exposure 4, endangering adjacent homes. dow, getting halfway through before Lt. Light shouted for FF Battalion Chief Kevin Connelly (Battalion 19) directed Constantine to pull him back. Firefighter Mike O’Brien rushed up Lieutenant Joseph Light of Rescue 3 to split his crew be- to assist, and together they hauled the victim back inside, untantween the two exposures. They confirmed there was no fire gling his legs from the window frame. By now, fire was roaring up extension. Lt. Light led his team, Firefighters Mike O’Brien the stairwell, forcing the rescuers to use all their strength to carry and Peter Constantine, to the rear of the original fire build- the semi-conscious firefighter down to safety. ing, ascending to the second floor via an exterior stairway.

As they reached the second-floor hallway, the OV firefightInside, the firefighters were met with intense heat and er collapsed, unconscious. Firefighters Kevin Legacy and Andy dense black smoke, forcing them to crawl as they made their O’Brien from Rescue 3 assisted by clearing a path as they carway through the second floor. Flames were freely burning in ried the injured member down to the street. Outside, FDNY EMS the front room, but despite the dangerous conditions, the personnel were waiting, and they immediately began life-saving team conducted primary searches, which turned up negative treatments for severe smoke inhalation. for trapped occupants.

The coordinated effort between the members of Rescue FF O’Brien located and forced open the attic door. Despite Company 3, who operated in punishing conditions without due worsening heat and zero visibility, FF Constantine and Lt. Light regard to their own safety, resulted in the life of a firefighter beadvanced up the attic stairs while FF O’Brien remained on the ing saved. Lieutenant Joseph Light set the operational tempo second floor to monitor conditions. In the attic, Lt. Light searched for a positive outcome, drawing on decades of experience both to the rear, and FF Constantine moved toward the front. Mo- on the fire floor and in leadership. For his bravery and tactical ments later, FF Constantine reported that fire was now breaching leadership at Bronx fifth alarm Box 3360, he is awarded the Hugh the attic stairs, threatening their exit.

Bonner Medal and Honor Legion Medal.—RLL As they prepared to withdraw, Lt. Light heard a Vibra-Alert, the distress alarm from another firefighter’s SCBA, recognizing it as belonging to the outside vent (OV) firefighter from Ladder 46. Lt. Light attempted to make contact, repeatedly calling for him to evacuate. After receiving no response, Lt. Light tried to reach him physically. He then called FF Constantine to come back to his position. At this time, the attic door slammed shut, jamming from heat and swelling wood. After forcing it open again, FF Constantine joined Lt. Light, and they confirmed that they had a downed firefighter inside.

FF Constantine crawled into the rear bedroom through thick smoke and found the Ladder 46 OV on his knees, disoriented and unresponsive.

Grabbing the firefighter’s shoulder straps, FF Constantine began pulling him toward the stairs. When Rescue Co. 3 arrived on scene, fire was Along the way, the injured firefighter became tan- consuming multiple e-bikes on the porch. (Photo

by JJNews/Tiktok)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Yadira Arroyo Medal

July 4, 2025, 1835 hours, CAD 3846 and CAD 3855, Rockway Beach, Queens

FF Saverio J. Bosco Jr. Station 47 Appointed to the FDNY on October 16, 2017. EMT at the time of the incident.

Promoted to probationary firefighter in October 2025, now assigned to Ladder Co. 126. Previously assigned to Stations 47 and 55. Recipient of the 2025 Yadira Arroyo Medal, a Unit Citation (2023), a Unit of the Month (2022) and a COVID-19 commendation. Member of the FDNY Columbia Association and FDNY lacrosse team. Resides in Long Beach, New York.

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FF Christoper S. Nigro Station 47

EMT Miguel A. Soto Jr. Station 47

EMT Michael Spalletta Station 47

Appointed to the FDNY on June 11, 2018. Appointed to the FDNY on March 21, EMT at the time of incident. Graduated 2021. Previously assigned to Station 55. from the fire academy in February 2026, Resides in Far Rockaway, New York. currently a probationary firefighter assigned to Ladder Co. 147. Previously assigned to Station 47 and Queens Technical Response Group. Holds an associate degree in liberal arts from Nassau Community College.

Father, Captain Michael Nigro, retired from Engine Co. 68. Resides in West Islip, New York, with wife Kara and son Luca.

Appointed to the FDNY on October 31, 2016. Previously assigned to Station 55. Recipient of a Pre-Hospital Save, COVID-19 commendation and Unit of the Month (May 2024). Resides in Amityville, New York.

DNY EMS members must be prepared to act without hes- to Ladder Co. 147) entered the water. They observed a young itation when lives are in danger. Each summer, FDNY EMS victim caught in a rip current and being swept toward the jetty. beach Gators are assigned to Rockaway Beach, where EMT Nigro swam approximately 100 yards through hazardous they provide rapid medical response along the shoreline and surf in an area of beach that had been closed earlier in the day stand ready to assist during emergencies. Operating alongside due to shark sightings. By the time he reached the victim, the lifeguards and FDNY resources, these members are uniquely victim had nearly drifted past the jetty. EMT Nigro gave the positioned to respond when seconds matter most. FDNY EMS victim the rescue torpedo he had brought with him, helping members remain prepared to act when lives are at risk. to keep the victim’s head above water, and began pulling him On the evening of July 4, 2025, even after lifeguards had back toward shore. As the rescue continued, EMT Soto and an gone off duty, large Independence Day crowds remained on off-duty lifeguard entered the surf and assisted EMT Nigro and the beach. EMT Saverio Bosco (now a probationary firefight- the victim back to dry land. The patient was then placed in the er assigned to Ladder Co. 126), EMT Michael Spalletta and Gator vehicle, removed from the beach and evaluated by anthe FDNY Robotics Unit observed three swimmers in distress other EMS crew before refusing further treatment. near the Beach 98 jetty. The swimmers were struggling to In two separate water rescues on the same busy holiday evestay afloat after being caught in a powerful rip current. ning, these FDNY EMS members acted without hesitation and EMT Spalletta immediately entered the water with members placed themselves in harm’s way to save others. Their courage, of the FDNY Robotics Unit to reach the victims. At the same composure and teamwork in the face of dangerous surf and time, EMT Bosco notified dispatch of a drowning in progress rapidly evolving conditions undoubtedly saved lives. near Beach 97 and Shore Front Parkway, requested additional For their courage, teamwork and life-saving actions, EMT resources and moved the vehicle to the shoreline. EMT Bosco Michael Spalletta, Firefighter Saverio Bosco, Firefighter then entered the water with a rescue tether and swam out to as- Christopher Nigro and EMT Miguel Soto are awarded the sist the rescuers and victims. The rescuers swam approximately Yadira Arroyo Medal.—CB 60 yards offshore to reach the struggling swimmers. Together, they secured the victims and brought all three safely back to shore. Once removed from the water, the swimmers were evaluated and refused further treatment.

That same evening, beachgoers flagged down another EMS crew and alerted them to a swimmer in distress.

EMT Miguel Soto immediately notified dispatch while EMT Christopher Nigro Members of EMS Station 4's Gator unit rescued several swimmers in two separate incidents on a busy (now a probationary firefighter assigned Independence Day on Rockway Beach. (Photos by Command Tactical Unit) Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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BC Thomas J. Neary Bronx/Harlem Firefighter Medal Firefighter Peter C. Constantine Rescue Company 3

June 22, 2025, 1924 hours, Box 55-3360, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on September 14, 2003. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 69/Ladder Co. 28. Holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Mercy University. Recipient of two Unit Citations. Member of the FDNY Hellenic Society. Resides in Yorktown Heights, New York, with wife Pamela and children Charlotte, Christopher and Cooper.

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n the evening of June 22, 2025, members of Rescue Company 3 distinguished themselves by acts of exceptional bravery, professionalism and devotion to duty while operating at a rapidly advancing fire in the University Heights section of the Bronx.

Only an hour into the 6x9 tour, Ladder 46 transmitted a 10-75 for a fire in a two-and-a-half-story private dwelling.

Upon arrival, units were confronted with a well-advanced fire that had extended across the porch, where multiple e-bikes were burning, and was impinging on adjacent buildings.

Recognizing the severity of the conditions and the immediate threat to surrounding structures, Battalion Chief Kevin Connolly (Battalion 19) transmitted a second alarm.

Engine companies 81 and 75 stretched multiple handlines, while Ladder companies 46 and 33 initiated search and forcible entry operations. Ladder 56 was assigned as the FAST truck and took proactive measures to ladder the fire building and exposures as fire conditions intensified.

Rescue Company 3, led by Lieutenant Joseph Light, was assigned to assist with operations in the exposures. After conferring with members already operating, Lt. Light redeployed with firefighters Mike O’Brien and Peter Constantine to the rear of the fire building to gain access to the second floor via an exterior stair.

Upon entry, Rescue 3 encountered high heat and heavy smoke, requiring them to advance by crawling as they conducted a primary search of the second floor. After confirming no victims were present, they forced entry into the attic space above, where Ladder 46’s outside vent firefighter had

Lt. Light and FF Contantine, Rescue Co. 3, fought through intense smoke and fire in the attic to bring a fellow firefighter to safety. (Photos by Hon. Battalion Chief David Burns)

previously entered via ground ladder.

As conditions in the attic rapidly deteriorated, with fire extending from the floors below and visibility reduced to near zero, Lt. Light and FF Constantine initiated a search. With no hoseline in place and fire intensifying, the decision was made to withdraw to the second floor.

While attempting to notify Ladder 46’s OV of their intent to egress, members heard his Vibra-Alert alarm sounding and observed he was unresponsive to verbal commands. Recognizing the immediate life hazard, FF Constantine proceeded to the rear of the attic, where he located the disoriented and semi-conscious firefighter.

Without hesitation, FF Constantine grabbed the impaired firefighter by his SCBA shoulder straps. The removal was significantly hindered by clutter conditions, causing entanglements with furniture. Despite these obstacles, FF Constantine successfully freed the firefighter and continued the rescue effort under worsening conditions.

During the removal, Ladder 46 OV, overcome by the effects of smoke inhalation, became combative and disoriented, attempting to remove FF Constantine’s face piece and move away from the means of egress. Demonstrating exceptional composure and physical strength, FF Constantine maintained control of the situation until assisted by FF O’Brien and Lt. Light. Together, the members successfully removed the now-unconscious firefighter down the attic stairs to safety and awaiting FDNY EMS. Firefighter Constantine’s decisive actions, situational awareness and unwavering commitment to a fellow firefighter in peril directly resulted in the rescue of a member under life-threatening conditions. For his extraordinary heroism and selfless dedication to duty, Firefighter Peter Constantine is hereby awarded the BC Thomas J. Neary Bronx/Harlem Firefighter Medal of valor.—MP

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

19

Emily Trevor Mary B. Warren Medal Firefighter Timothy B. McGuire Rescue Company 5

January 15, 2025, 0616 hours, Box 22-2887, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on June 11, 2006. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 119, Ladder Co. 157 and Rescue 1. Holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Iona University. Member of the FDNY Emerald Society, FDNY Holy Name Society and FDNY Emerald Society Pipes and Drums. Resides on Staten Island with wife Lisa and daughter Riley.

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n the morning of January 15, 2025, Rescue Company 5 was called to a second-alarm fire in Brooklyn. As they arrived at the scene, heavy fire was pushing from a second-floor window of a seven-story multiple-family building. Within moments of their arrival, a window burst from the intense heat, allowing fire to sweep through the apartment.

As Rescue 5 moved in, they learned the second-floor apartment door had been left open, letting smoke and flames spread quickly into the hallway and stairwells.

As Ladder Company 168 searched for the source of the fire, Engine Company 243 stretched a hoseline to the second floor. Battalion 42 directed Rescue 5 to help locate the fire apartment and support searches for trapped residents, assist with locating the fire apartment and aiding the ladder companies with their searches.

Firefighter Timothy McGuire, assigned to Rescue 5, announced that he would search the floor above the fire, the third floor, to ensure no one was trapped. He faced heavy smoke and zero visibility as he climbed the stairs above the fire, quickly donning his mask to continue. At the third-floor landing, FF McGuire heard faint cries for help coming from above. He crawled up to the next landing and discovered several people trapped by the smoke and heat.

FF McGuire immediately reported his findings, requested help and assessed the situation. Among the trapped victims was an unconscious infant who needed urgent rescue. Cra-

dling the child in his arms, FF McGuire also helped the child's mother, who was semi-conscious, down the stairs to safety.

While responding to FF McGuire’s request for help, Rescue 5’s FF John Berger also discovered a small child.

In the lobby, FF McGuire quickly notified firefighters from Ladder Co. 149 of additional victims needing help. Once outside, he immediately began life-saving interventions on the infant before handing the child over to EMS. Despite these life-saving efforts, McGuire knew his work wasn’t done. He immediately returned to the fire floor, helping Engine Company 243 members, who had suffered burns and depleted their air, reach safety.

Firefighter McGuire’s intuition and bravery exemplified the highest traditions of the FDNY. He risked his life above the fire, without the protection of a hoseline, under extremely dangerous conditions. His actions directly saved lives, showing selflessness and dedication to duty. For his courage, quick thinking and unwavering commitment to saving others, Firefighter Timothy McGuire is awarded the Emily Trevor Mary B. Warren Medal.—BC

Members of Rescue Co. 5 who operated on January 15, 2025, at Brooklyn Box 22-2887. From left to right: Captain James Murray, FF Timothy McGuire, FF John Berger, FF Steve Murphy, FF Rob Fucci and FF David Maglathlin. (Not pictured: FF John Teahan)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

20

Thomas E. Crimmins Medal Firefighter Michal Prokop Marine Company 1

April 10, 2025, 1517 hours, Box 0352, Hudson River/Pier 40, Manhattan Appointed to the FDNY on June 29, 2015. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 11. Recipient of a Unit Citation (Ladder 11). Member of the FDNY football and grappling/wrestling teams. Resides in Middle Village, New York, with wife Jaclyn and children Valentina and Leo.

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n the afternoon of April 10, 2025, Marine FF Prokop immediately returned to the 1 was dispatched to the Hudson River helicopter, now completely surrounded by for a helicopter in the water near Pier 40. aviation fuel, to check for additional victims Marine 1 immediately responded via the trapped inside the helicopter. While holdAlpha boat, staffed with Lieutenant Keith ing onto the helicopter landing skids, FF Nebel, Firefighter Kieran Murphy and FireProkop swung his legs inside of the wreckfighter Michal Prokop. While responding, age to feel for other victims. He eventuMarine 1 observed heavy boat traffic and ally located an additional victim—a child. multiple NYPD Harbor units rapidly headFF Prokop quickly extricated the second ing toward the Holland Tunnel ventilation victim and passed him off to FF Murphy, tower on the New Jersey side. who—with the assistance of Lt. Nebel— At the helm of Marine 1, FF Murphy immediately initiated medical care. navigated between two vessels and poAs FF Prokop started back toward the sitioned the boat parallel to the helicophelicopter to complete his search, other ter, reporting that a NYC tourist helicopMarine units began to arrive and enter ter was upside down and sinking in the the water. FF Prokop was directed to asHudson River. sist FF Murphy with life-saving treatments.

Lt. Nebel and FF Michal Prokop quickly The firefighters then passed the victims to worked to get a tether line around one of NYPD Marine units, and they were transthe helicopter’s landing skids, while FF Murported to a New Jersey hospital. At the phy tied off the line to Marine 1’s midship cleat. As Lt. Nebel conclusion of this operation, FF Prokop received stitches secured the tether rope, FF Prokop—equipped with a dry suit, in his hand due to the razor-sharp metal he encountered goggles and a personal while disentangling the flotation device—immevictims inside the subdiately descended into merged helicopter. the fuel-drenched water FF Prokop placed to begin a primary search himself at personal risk for victims trapped inside and overcame an exthe helicopter. tremely challenging FF Prokop was able to operating environment feel and visually identify amongst the fuel spill, a victim inside the helirough water, sinking copter. He repositioned helicopter and zero-vishimself underwater and ibility conditions underused his knife to release water. Due to his heroic the victim from her seatdetermination and rebelt restraint. After freelentless effort to save ing the victim from the lives, Firefighter Michal helicopter, FF Prokop Prokop operated in the swam her back to Marine highest traditions of the 1 Alpha and passed her FDNY and is the recipoff to FF Murphy. At that ient of the Thomas E. point, it was clear that FF Michal Prokop enters the Hudson River from Marine 1 Alpha to conduct an initial search for Crimmins Medal.—BPJ the victim was deceased. victims. (Photo courtesy of the NYPD Aviation Unit) Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

21

Thomas A. Kenny Memorial Medal Firefighter Brian F. Mahoney Ladder Company 42

November 13, 2025, 0728 hours, Box 77-2377, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on December 5, 2017. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 73. Holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from University at Albany. Recipient of multiple Pre-Hospital Saves (2022(2), 2023, 2025). Member of the FDNY Emerald Society. Resides in Rockville Centre, New York, with wife, Lisa Kamna, and children, Matty and Jack.

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n the morning of November 13, 2025, Ladder Company 42 received an alarm to respond to Bronx Box 2377 for a report of smoke on the sixth floor of a large, 14-story, high-rise fireproof multiple dwelling. The Bronx Communication Office alerted the responding units that they were loading up the box due to the volume of calls and reports of people trapped. The reports were confirmed when, upon arrival, members observed a woman behind a sixth-floor window gate with heavy smoke pushing around her.

Firefighter Brian Mahoney (outside vent) assisted Firefighter Donal Finnegan (chauffeur) in positioning and setting up the aerial ladder for the woman’s rescue and removal.

FF Mahoney ascended the aerial first, followed by FF Finnegan. As they reached the window, the distraught woman alerted the members that her boyfriend was still trapped in the apartment. FF Finnegan relayed the information to his officer, Captain Jonathan Shields, as FF Mahoney started to work on removing the child gate.

Captain Shields told FF Finnegan that the inside team was unable to make entry because the apartment door was barricaded by clutter, and that they were attempting to breach the wall from the adjoining apartment. Armed with that information, the firefighters decided that FF Mahoney would make entry from the window and perform an aggressive search for the missing man while FF Finnegan removed the female victim from the window. The terrified woman briefly moved away from the window while FF Mahoney cleared

Members of Ladder Co. 42 and Engine Co. 73 who operated at Bronx Box 2377 on November 13, 2025. Standing, from left to right: FF Mauricio Vega (L-42), FF Nick DelGrosso (E-73), FF Matt Carroll (E-73), Captain Jonathan Shields (L-42), FF Martin Camas (E-73), FF Sean Cunningham Jr. (E-73) and FF Chris McCrorie (E-73). Sitting, left to right: medal recipients FF Donal Finnegan (L-42) and FF Brian Mahoney (L-42). Photo by FF Steve Candal (E-73).

glass from the frame, donned his face piece and entered the apartment to search.

As soon as FF Mahoney began his search, he was knee-deep in clutter, which made moving through the apartment difficult, while the intense heat and zero visibility from the uncontrolled fire made it nearly impossible. FF Mahoney knew he was the only firefighter in the apartment and the trapped man's only chance at survival, so he persevered through the nearly waisthigh clutter. His search was slow and meticulous, but it paid off when he located the unconscious victim slumped over and partially buried in clutter. After transmitting a 10-45 to Battalion Chief Michael Accardi, Battalion 26, FF Mahoney started to clear a path through the debris to pull the victim to safety.

By now, Captain Shields had gained access through the breach and helped FF Mahoney expedite the unresponsive victim’s removal. Engine Company 73 followed Captain Shields through the breach and began knocking down fire over their heads, protecting them and the victim. FF Mahoney and Captain Shields, now assisted by Firefighter Mauricio Vega (can), began the herculean task of lifting and removing the victim over and through the clutter toward the apartment door, which had been forced open and cleared by members of Ladder Company 31. Once the victim was removed to the public hallway, FF Mahoney transferred care to other firefighters who took him to awaiting EMS members.

FF Brian Mahoney conducted himself with great distinction and upholds the highest traditions of the Fire Department of the City of New York, for which he is presented with the Thomas A. Kenny Memorial Medal.—TM

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

22

Walter Scott Medal Firefighter Daniel M. Sullivan

Ladder Company 116; Marine Company 6 (detailed) August 13, 2025, 2213 hours, Box 7372, East River under the Roosevelt Island Bridge, Queens Appointed to the FDNY on March 25, 2007. Previously assigned to Ladder 116. Attended Pace University.

Recipient of two Unit Citations (Marine 6, May and August 2025). Member of the FDNY football team.

Father, Firefighter James Sullivan, retired from Ladder Co. 142 in 2010. Resides in Long Beach, New York, with wife Jessica and children Daniel and Joseph.

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ater rescues are among the most unpredictable and device, allowing him to fight his way out of the pilings and dangerous operations the FDNY faces. Victims may into the open river. After FF Sullivan extricated himself and panic, resist assistance or unintentionally pull rescu- the victim from the pilings, the current swept them under the ers underwater in their desperation. Strong currents, cold wa- bow of the boat as the Feehan backed off the bridge stanter, limited visibility and dechion. FF Sullivan refused to bris only add to the danger, release his grip on the victim making every second critical. and torpedo while being fulOn a rainy night in August, ly submerged multiple times Firefighter Daniel Sullivan during this process. and the crew of Marine 6’s On board the vessel, Firefireboat, the William M. Feefighters Ryan Barnett and han, faced those conditions Evangelo Mondo maintained head-on and put themselves control of the rescue tether at great risk to save a life. in the ripping current while Marine Company 6 rePilot Forget maneuvered the sponded to a water rescue vessel clear of danger. Marine beneath the Roosevelt Isengineer Kyle Nevin and wipland Bridge, where land units er Dan Flynn quickly brought could see a victim desperatethe victim aboard and immely clinging to a narrow pipe diately began triaging and conduit as waves crashed treating the victim, who was over them. The East River was in serious distress. Once all moving rapidly and was at members and the victim were high tide as the Feehan made safely on board, Pilot Forget its way to the scene. Pilot brought the Feehan at speed Scott Forget expertly maneuto the Gracie Mansion ferry vered the fireboat through terminal. There, members of the rough current and posiMarine 6 offloaded the victim tioned the boat to allow for through the closed terminal, the rescue swimmer, FF Sullinavigating multiple railings van, to access the victim withand forcing open two locked out harming them. gates before transferring care FF Sullivan leapt off the to awaiting FDNY paramedbow of the boat and was inics. stantly and forcefully swept Firefighter Sullivan’s courinto the pilings. Sullivan reage, skill and determination gained his bearings and enin an extremely dangerous gaged the victim, who was and rapidly evolving situation no longer able to keep themwere instrumental in saving selves above the raging wathe life of this victim. For his ters. Sullivan maneuvered the courage, skill and teamwork, water rescue torpedo so the Firefighter Daniel Sullivan victim was secured between is awarded the Walter Scott him and the rescue flotation August 13, 2025, Box 7372, East River under the Roosevelt Island Bridge Medal.—CB Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

23

John H. Prentice Medal Firefighter James M. Lafferty

Engine Company 76 (assigned); Ladder Company 22 (detailed) December 9, 2025, 0820 hours, Box 44-1312, Manhattan Appointed to the FDNY on August 5, 2007. Attended SUNY Cortland. Recipient of the Dr. John F. Connell Medal (2024), two Class As, two Unit Citations and six Pre-Hospital Saves. Father, Firefighter James H. Lafferty, retired from Engine Co. 60 in 1998. Resides in Wantagh, New York, with wife Christine and children Ava, Aidan and Liam.

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n December 9, 2025, the members of Ladder Company 22 arrived at Manhattan Box 1312 to heavy fire on the top floor of a six-story, non-fireproof apartment building. Engine Co. 76 had transmitted a second alarm on arrival, with fire out multiple windows extending to the cornices on the exposure 1 and 4 sides of the building.

The company received reports of a person at the window and possibly trapped inside a burning apartment on the top floor. Ladder 22’s captain, Daniel Flanagan, and his inside team rushed into the building and climbed the public stairway to the sixth floor. A neighbor pointed out the fire apartment and said, “I heard someone in there!” The team immediately began forcing entry.

Once inside, the firefighters of Ladder 22 were met with blinding smoke and overwhelming heat. As they conducted their initial search, they discovered that the fire in the apartment’s hallway was emanating from the first two rooms on the right. Both were engulfed in fire, and their doors were compromised.

The door to the first room was stuck ajar, by the collapsed ceiling, as flames licked around it. The door to the second room had been incinerated, and inside, can firefighter, James Lafferty, would risk his life to protect others.

Conditions began to deteriorate rapidly in the apartment and in other parts of the building. Heavy fire had spread to the cockloft and through the roof. At the same time, faint cries for help came from within. Captain Flanagan instructed FF Lafferty to remain next to the second room, use his fire extinguisher to cool the area and act as a beacon in the now completely darkened environment. Captain Flanagan and Firefighter

Manhattan fourth alarm, Box 44-1312, December 9, 2025. (Photo courtesy of Benjamin Dicker)

Adam Narkier (forcible entry) then continued to search deeper into the apartment. As FF Lafferty attempted to cool the area with his extinguisher, he heard another, more localized plea for help. He was now almost certain that the voice was coming from the flame-engulfed second room. Crawling on his stomach because of the immense heat above, he moved in the direction of the faint cries and quickly found the badly burned occupant trapped in the corner.

FF Lafferty immediately transmitted to the incident commander that he had found an injured victim. Unassisted, he removed the casualty from the apartment, back through the burning apartment and to the door, shielding him with a maneuver that positioned him between the victim and the roaring fire above. Once back in the public hallway, he brought the victim to members of Engine Company 47, who removed him from the building via a staircase and transferred him to EMS. From the onset, Ladder 22 had been confronted with extreme emergency: a heavy fire load on the top floor, and multiple reports of a confirmed life hazard in the burning apartment. Still, Firefighter Lafferty was able to locate the victim and transmit a notification to the IC within minutes of arriving at the scene. The fire escalated to a third alarm one minute after that notification, ultimately rising to a fourth alarm. Had it not been for his daring and expedient actions, the outcome of the incident would have been far more tragic.

In this instance, great risk was followed with great reward: a courageous public servant’s risk, the reward of a life preserved. For his efforts, Firefighter James Lafferty is awarded the John H. Prentice Medal.—TMcP

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

24

Henry D. Brookman Medal Lieutenant Frank A. Criscuolo Ladder Company 41

August 8, 2025, 1306 hours, Box 22-4801, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on July 28, 2002. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 316, Engine Co. 53 and Ladder Co. 43. Holds an associate degree in mortuary science from Nassau Community College.

Recipient of a Unit Citation (Ladder Co. 43) and the Firefighter William Moon commendation (bone marrow donor). Member of the FDNY Columbia Association. Resides in Oceanside, New York, with wife Allison and children Olivia and Anthony.

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n the afternoon of August 8, 2025, Ladder Company 41 responded first due to a reported fire at Box 4801 in the Allerton section of the Bronx. While they were en route, due to the quantity and quality of calls reporting fire, the Bronx communications office transmitted the signal 10-30 and loaded up the box.

Upon arrival on the block, Ladder 41’s officer, Lieutenant Frank Criscuolo, observed heavy fire showing from the top

While searching the top-floor fire apartment, Lt. Frank Criscuolo combed through heavy heat and fire without the protection of a hoseline. He discovered an unconcious victim and passed those intensifying flames again in order to quickly remove the victim. (Photo from Citizen)

floor on the exposure 4 side of a large, six-story, H-type multiple dwelling, and he promptly transmitted the 10-75 signal to confirm a structural fire.

Lt. Criscuolo and his inside team, Firefighters Peter Quinn (can) and Anthony Serrano (irons), rapidly ascended the single interior stairwell, passing a multitude of fleeing, panicked occupants. Upon their arrival on the sixth floor, Lt. Criscuolo observed heavy black smoke pushing from the door of the fire apartment. He quickly checked the door for heat and whether the locks were engaged. Discovering that the locks were not engaged, Lt. Criscuolo discerned that there was likely a life hazard in the apartment.

As the team masked up, Lt. Criscuolo opened the door to the apartment and was immediately met with high heat and a heavy smoke condition, which necessitated the inside team dropping to the floor. Scanning the hallway with the thermal imaging camera, Lt. Criscuolo observed heavy fire to his right. Lt. Criscuolo ordered FF Serrano to perform a left-hand search while he and FF Quinn performed a right-hand search toward the fire area.

As Lt. Criscuolo and FF Quinn reached the fire area, heavy fire was beginning to extend to the apartment hallway. Lt. Criscuolo ordered FF Quinn to hold back the fire with the can extinguisher while he continued his search toward the rear of the apartment.

Upon reaching a rear bedroom, Lt. Criscuolo discovered an unconscious adult male victim lying face down on the floor and immediately transmitted a 10-45. He began removing the lifeless victim toward the apartment entrance. As he reached the kitchen area with the victim, the fire was heavily extending into the apartment hallway. Realizing that conditions were rapidly deteriorating, and with no charged hoseline yet in place, Lt. Criscuolo made his move past the fire while shielding the victim from the intense heat and flame with his body.

FF Quinn then met Lt. Criscuolo and assisted in removing the victim to the public hallway. FF Serrano joined the effort in removing the victim to the street, where he was transferred to the care of awaiting EMS. In keeping with the highest traditions of the Department and due to his determination and fortitude under severe fire conditions, without the protection of a charged hoseline, Lieutenant Frank Criscuolo was able to affect this daring rescue. For his heroic actions, he is awarded the Henry D. Brookman Medal.—SI

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

25

Chief Ulyses Grant Leadership Medal Deputy Chief Joseph Nocerino Division 5

December 30, 2025, 0605 hours, CAD 0883, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on April 16, 1999. Previously assigned to Station 58, Station 38, Bureau of Training, Division 4, Division 9. Recipient of Pre-Hospital Saves and Unit of the Month. Resides in Broad Channel, New York, with wife Ruth and children Emily and Gabriella.

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n December 30, 2025, around 6 a.m., New York City—the city that never sleeps—was getting ready for the coming day. As Deputy Chief Joseph Nocerino headed to work, traversing the Belt Parkway through Brooklyn en route to Staten Island, he became aware of a smoke condition at a nearby structure. He immediately diverted from his planned route to investigate while monitoring the appropriate emergency frequencies.

In the Coney Island section of Brooklyn, he discovered a two-story home engulfed in flames, with fire on the second floor and into the roof. No notification had been made on the borough dispatch frequency, so he knew help was not yet on its way.

Smoke was emanating from the front door and the exposure. A decision had to be made: assume operational control, or attempt to notify and evacuate the residents. Deputy Chief Nocerino chose both. After providing a brief description of the incident and requesting additional resources, he braved the smoke and flames to enter the building and notify occupants. He banged on doors and assisted residents, successfully evacuating all first-floor residents of the fire building and the attached residence.

The smoke condition was overpowering, the fire was spreading to the interior staircase, and Chief Nocerino was equipped with nothing but his wit and experience. Knowing the fire was on the second floor and that more people

were in danger, he pushed forward and forced the door to check for occupants. Upon entering the second floor, he was met with heavy smoke and heat.

He ensured there were no civilians in immediate distress and confirmed the floor was unoccupied, with the exception of the two cats that escaped the blaze through his entry point.

As he retreated below, he knew that if the fire spread to the first floor, it would endanger not only property, but also the lives of his FDNY family battling it; so, he closed the door and controlled it until Ladder Company 166 arrived on scene.

Chief Nocerino informed fire companies of the fire location and then assumed medical branch control. He coordinated an 18-unit EMS response, which included a variety of specialized personnel, and ensured the civilians he evacuated received appropriate care. His scene management allowed our emergency practitioners to focus on providing pre-hospital care to the affected civilians and to be ready to assist firefighters if the need arose.

Core components of leadership include displaying character and competence and making decisions consistent with organizational goals. Deputy Chief Joseph Nocerino's actions at this incident reflect these qualities and more. He proved that he is among the best of the best, going above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of the citizens of New York. For those reasons, he is bestowed the Chief Ulyses Grant Leadership Medal.—JS

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

26

Michael J. Delehanty Medal Captain Anthony Harper

Division 8 (assigned); Engine Company 163 (detailed) January 17, 2025, 1551 hours, Box 22-1946, Staten Island Appointed to the FDNY on September 12, 2004. Promoted to captain in 2022. Previously assigned to Engine 321 (lieutenant). Holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami. Recipient of two PreHospital Saves (2020, 2021). Served in the U.S. Army from 1991–1995. Resides on Staten Island with wife Dakota and their daughter, Sofia.

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n the afternoon of January 17, 2025, Engine Company 163 was returning to quarters when multiple calls came in reporting a basement fire with people trapped at Box 1946 on Staten Island. Arriving first due, Captain Anthony Harper (Div. 8, detailed to E-163) observed heavy smoke pushing from the main door on the exposure 2 side of a two-story private dwelling and immediately transmitted a signal 10-75. After ordering his members to stretch a hoseline, Captain Harper was informed by distraught parents that their two-year-old child was trapped in the basement where the fire had originated.

With no ladder company yet in position and the hoseline still being stretched, Captain Harper quickly assessed the situation and determined that immediate action was necessary. Entering through the main door, he located the basement stairway and began descending toward the fire area. Without the protection of a hoseline, he entered the smoke-filled basement, where he encountered intense heat and zero visibility. As he proceeded down the stairway, he maneuvered past a quarter landing engulfed in flames in order to reach the basement level.

Operating under these dangerous and deteriorating conditions, Captain Harper located the main body of fire in the basement living area and continued his search deeper into the apartment. Entering a rear bedroom, he discovered the unconscious toddler lying on the lower bunk of a bunk bed. Captain Harper immediately transmitted a 10-45 and began removing the child as conditions continued to worsen. Carrying the child toward a basement window that had been vented prior to arrival, Captain Harper passed the toddler to the Ladder 86’s outside vent firefighter, Ryan Smith, who was positioned at the rear of the dwelling. The child was immediately transferred to EMS personnel and transported to Staten Island University Hospital. Due to the swift and decisive actions taken by Captain Harper, the child survived.

Captain Harper placed his own safety at great personal risk while operating in a smoke-filled basement without the protection of a hoseline to locate and rescue a trapped child. His courageous actions and unwavering commitment to the protection of life reflect the highest traditions of the Fire Department of the City of New York. For his actions at this fire, Captain Anthony Harper is awarded Michael J. Delehanty Medal.—PZ

Members of Engine Co. 163 and Ladder Co. 86 who operated at Box 22-1946, January 17, 2025, from left to right: FF Victoria Myers (E-163), FF Jamie Crispino (E-163), FF James Long (L-83), FF Justin Burks (L-86), FF Daniel Davis (E-163), Capt.

Anthony Harper (Div. 8), FF Leobardo Dominguez (L-86), FF Ryan Smith (L-86), FF Ryan Feeney (L-83), FF Keith Olsen (L-86) and Lt. Christopher Spagnola (Div. 8).

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

27

Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia Medal Lieutenant Scott W. Ettinger Engine Company 155

April 23, 2025, 1055 hours, Box 22-0076, Staten Island Appointed to the FDNY on September 23, 2004. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 76, Engine Co. 281 and Ladder Co. 147. Attended the College of Staten Island. Recipient of a Unit Citation (2022) and three PreHospital Saves (2008, 2018, 2022). Member of the FDNY Vikings. Resides on Staten Island with wife Kerri and children Nathan and Leila.

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n the morning of April 23, 2025, Engine Company 155 received a phone alarm reporting a fire on the second floor of a two-story private dwelling at Staten Island Box 0076. While en route, units were advised by dispatch of possible trapped occupants on the second floor.

Engine 155 encountered heavy fire conditions upon arrival. With failed windows on exposure 1 and 2, fire was emanating from both windows. Lieutenant Scott Ettinger of Engine 155 immediately radioed to incoming Ladder Company 78 to transmit a 10-75 and ordered a handline to be stretched.

While awaiting the hoseline, Lt. Ettinger forced entry through the building’s front door, proceeded up the stairs to the second floor and was met with heavy black smoke pushing from behind the apartment’s front door. Lt. Ettinger forced his way through the locked door and was immediately met with high heat, heavy black smoke and zero visibility.

After removing clutter from behind the door and gaining entry into the second-floor apartment, Lt. Ettinger heard moaning from a victim and began a left-handed search, navigating through the heavily cluttered apartment.

Forced to the ground because of the heat, Lt. Ettinger followed the sound of the victim’s moan, crawling approxi-

mately 20 feet toward the main body of the fire without the protection of a charged hoseline. The lieutenant was aware that his exit path could be cut off by fire at any moment. After locating the victim on their back and barely conscious, the lieutenant transmitted a 10-45 to Ladder 78, who had just arrived at the scene.

Lt. Ettinger removed the victim past the main body of the fire, shielding them with his body as he experienced extreme heat to his back and neck. He then carried the victim down the stairs to the first floor, where a member of Ladder 78 met him to take the victim and remove them from the building for medical treatment. Lt Ettinger, along with the members of Engine 155, then advanced the handline to the second floor and began extinguishing the advancing fire.

Lt. Ettinger displayed tremendous skill and aggressiveness, placing himself in a dangerous situation to locate a victim, dragging them out of the cluttered apartment while protecting them from the heat of the fire, down the stairs and out of danger, saving their life. For his bravery, Lieutenant Scott Ettinger is awarded the Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia Medal.—AO

Members of Engine Co. 155 who operated on April 23, 2025, at Staten Island Box 22-0076. From left to right: Lt. Scott W. Ettinger, FF Nicholas Siggia, FF Joseph Deebs, FF James Coluccio and FF Joseph Volpe.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

28

William F. Conran Medal Firefighter Jason M. Perri Ladder Company 17

September 24, 2025, 1125 hours, Box 77-2139, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on November 12, 2019. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 305. Holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Queens College. Recipient of a Unit Citation (2022) and a Pre-Hospital Save (2021).

Resides in Yonkers, New York.

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n September 24, 2025, at 1125 hours, Tower Ladder Company 17 responded to a phone alarm for a fire in apartment 12B of a high-rise apartment building in the Bronx. Tower Ladder 17 was aware that the company was responding without the normally assigned first, second and squad engines. The first-due engine, Engine Company 35, was coming from upper Manhattan.

Upon arrival, Ladder 17’s inside team of Captain Denis Keating, Firefighter Michael Duran (can), Firefighter Jason Perri (irons) and Firefighter Hilary Asselineau (roof) took control of the one working elevator and made their way to the 10th floor, two floors below the reported fire floor. The inside team located the B apartment on the 10th floor and made their way up to the 12th floor, while FF Asselineau made his way to apartment 13B on the 13th floor and gained entry. He transmitted a layout of where the fire and smoke were most likely located on the floor below to the inside team.

Meanwhile, Firefighter Xavier Berenguer (L-17, chauffeur) did a quick survey of the exterior of the building with Firefighter Christopher Korfeld (OV). FF Berenguer reported that a witness saw a person at the window of the fire apartment

prior to Ladder 17’s arrival. FF Korfeld reported the location of visible smoke and identified the affected line of apartments, then entered the building and took control of the elevator while FF Berenguer proceeded to the roof.

Meanwhile, the inside team found a haze of smoke on the fire floor and saw smoke pushing under pressure from around the door frame of apartment 12B at the end of the hall. FF Perri and FF Duran forced the locked apartment door and maintained door control, while Captain Keating transmitted the location of the fire. The inside team masked up and began their search.

As they made entry into the apartment, they were met with high heat and zero visibility. Captain Keating located the fire in the living room right behind the front door. FF Duran performed a left-handed search and FF Perri performed a right-handed search, which required him to pass the fire. FF Perri searched down the hallway and into the bathroom, then continued into a rear bedroom, where he found a teenage victim on the floor between the bed and a wall. He called for assistance, and Captain Keating responded to the rear bedroom, confirmed the 10-45 and notified the incident commander. FF Duran responded as well and assisted FF Perri with the difficult removal, moving the victim out of the tight spot in the bedroom and down a hallway filled with clutter.

The firefighters removed the victim to the elevator and turned her over to FF Korfeld, who took the victim down to EMS on the ground floor. For his actions under dangerous and difficult conditions—without the protection of a hoseline— that resulted in saving a young life, Firefighter Jason Perri is being honored today with the William F. Conran Medal.—NG

Members of Ladder Co. 17 after the 10-77 at Bronx Box 2139, September 24, 2025. From left to right: FF Xavier Berenguer, FF Michael Duran, Captain Denis Keating, FF Jason Perri, FF Christopher Korfeld and FF Hilary Asselineau.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Chief John J. McElligott Medal & FFs Fitzpatrick and Frisby Award Firefighter Michael N. Bonomo Ladder Company 33

October 8, 2025, 1607 hours, Box 75-3181, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on March 28, 2022. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 167. Holds a bachelor's degree in nursing from Wagner College. Resides on Staten Island.

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n October 8, 2025, at 1607 hours, Tower Ladder Company 33 was dispatched to a reported fire at Bronx Box 3181, a six-story multiple dwelling. Members arrived on scene to find heavy fire venting out the windows of one side of the building. As the inside team— Lieutenant John Rodriquez, Firefighter Scotto (can) and Firefighter Michael Bonomo (forcible entry)— quickly made their way inside, first-due Engine Company 75’s officer, Lieutenant Patrick Donlon, transmitted that he had found a victim in the fire apartment on the third floor and began removing them to the public hallway. When the team arrived on the fire floor, they found high heat and heavy smoke pushing into the hallway from the fire apartment.

Lt. Donlon had informed his nozzle team that the fire was in the first bedroom, down the hallway on the left, and Engine 75 continued to flake out their attack line. Anticipating additional victims trapped inside, Firefighter Bonomo began searching the apartment to the right while Lt. Rodriguez and FF Sotto searched to the left. A heavy clutter condition throughout the apartment delayed the primary search, which became even more critical as Battalion 19 relayed reports over the radio of another civilian being trapped inside of the fire apartment.

Upon hearing the transmission, Firefighter Bonomo met up with FF Sotto. Due to the heavy clutter condition, the

firefighters were unable to close the fire bedroom door. But FF Sotto was able to use his extinguisher to hold back fire while FF Bonomo crawled under intense flames to conduct a search of the last bedroom. While searching on and around a bed, Firefighter Bonomo discovered a lifeless young child.

With Engine 75’s hoseline now advancing down the narrow, clutter-filled hallway, removing the victim through the apartment and out of the door would be an arduous, if not impossible, task. With this in mind, Firefighter Bonomo made the calculated decision to attempt removal via the bedroom window into the raised bucket of Tower Ladder 33. Firefighter Brogan (L-33, outside vent) removed the window’s child guards, and FF Bonomo successfully passed the victim to FF Patrick Fiffe in the bucket. The child was brought down to the street, where EMS members were waiting to provide treatment.

Firefighter Bonomo was subjected to unusual personal risk in making this dramatic rescue of a young child. He showed great determination, aggressive search tactics and intelligence under pressure to change the path of removal, which led to a child being saved. Firefighter Michael Bonomo’s courageous actions were reflective of his dedication to the highest standards and traditions of the FDNY, for which he is awarded the Chief John J. McElligott Medal and Firefighters Fitzpatrick and Frisby Award.—MB

Operations at Bronx Box 75-3181.

Right: After the child guards are removed, FF Bonomo passes his young victim to Firefighters Brogan and Fiffe at the window.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Thomas F. Dougherty Medal Firefighter Timothy P. Donlon Ladder Company 175

November 19, 2025, 0415 hours, Box 75-1739, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on July 5, 1992. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 332. Member of the FDNY Emerald Society. Son, Lt. Patrick Donlon, is assigned to Engine Co. 75 and is this year’s Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci, Jr. Medal and NYS Honorary Fire Chiefs Association Medal recipient. Firefighter Donlon resides in Bellmore, New York, with wife Tara. His two other children are Tara Ann and Kerri, and he has a granddaughter named Maeve Louise.

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t 0415 hours on November 19, 2025, Ladder Company 175 was dispatched to Box 1739 for a reported top-floor fire in a multiple dwelling in Brooklyn. Upon arrival, members were confronted by a suffocating wall of thick, rolling smoke pushing down to street level, an unmistakable indication of a well-advanced fire. Residents exiting the building reported that two occupants remained trapped in the top-floor apartment.

Without hesitation, Ladder 175’s inside team—Lieutenant Thomas Murphy, Firefighter James Denn (forcible entry) and Firefighter Timothy Donlon (can)—advanced to the upper floor to locate the trapped civilians. As they ascended, conditions deteriorated rapidly, with intense heat and zero visibility engulfing the interior. Outside, heavy fire venting from multiple rear windows confirmed a fully developed fire.

Arriving on the third floor, they discovered a locked fire apartment door. The members forced entry and advanced inside without the protection of a charged hoseline. Firefighter Donlon immediately moved toward the seat of the fire in the rear, armed with only a portable extinguisher. With flames rolling overhead and heat On April 9, 2025, FF Tim Donlon (left) celebrates son Patrick’s promotion to Both are medal recipients this year, as Lt. Donlon takes home fire intensifying, he aggressively lieutenant. operations’ top award: the Peter J. Ganci, Jr. and NYS Honorary Fire Chiefs knocked back the fire, hold- Association Medals.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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ing it in check and creating critical time and space for Lt. Murphy and FF Denn to begin their search for victims.

Advancing deeper into the apartment under extreme heat and near-total darkness, Firefighter Donlon located an unconscious civilian on the floor and transmitted a 10-45 to Command. Demonstrating exceptional composure and determination, he lifted the victim and began removal. Even while carrying the unconscious civilian, FF Donlon continued to operate his extinguisher, shielding his fellow members from the advancing fire as they completed their search.

Firefighter Donlon carried the victim through heavy smoke and down to street level, where the patient was transferred to EMS. Due to the speed and courage of his actions, the critical victim was successfully provided life-saving treatment at the scene and transported to the hospital.

Firefighter Timothy Donlon knowingly placed himself in the most extreme and life-threatening conditions, in high heat and zero visibility without the protection of a charged hoseline. His decisive, high-risk actions directly resulted in the rescue and survival of a trapped civilian, and he is awarded the Thomas F. Dougherty Medal for his courageous efforts.—MQ

Albert S. Johnston Medal Lieutenant Thomas R. Murphy Ladder Company 175

November 19, 2025, 0415 hours, Box 75-1739, Brooklyn

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Appointed to the FDNY on May 5, 2002. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 108. Member of the FDNY Emerald Society. Brother, Lt. Patrick Murphy, retired from Ladder Co. 132 in 2023; brother, Lt. Kevin Murphy, retired from Ladder 169 in 2019; father, Kevin Murphy, retired as a member of the fire patrol in 1967; multiple other relatives and godfather also serve(d). Resides in Belle Harbor, New York, with wife Meghan and their children Bree, Branden and Kaylee.

n November 19, 2025, Ladder Company 175, led by Lieutenant Thomas Murphy, arrived first on scene at Brooklyn Box 1739 and faced chaotic conditions: Panicked tenants were evacuating the three-story multiple dwelling through dense, rolling smoke at street level, shouting that there were two trapped occupants on the top floor. It was obvious that a rapidly growing fire had gained a foothold somewhere inside. This was confirmed by outside vent Firefighter Michael Pickford, who radioed that heavy fire was blazing out of three windows of the top floor apartment in the rear. Without delay, Ladder 175’s forcible entry team—Lt. Murphy and Firefighters James Denn and Timothy Donlon—entered the building.

Once inside, they ascended the stairs to the third floor through immense heat from the flames and total darkness from smoke, managing to reach the locked apartment door. When the inside team forced the door, the full extent of the fire was evident: Flames poured forth at the entrance, two rooms to the right were totally engulfed in fire and the hallway was rapidly becoming impassable. The men proceeded into the apartment armed with only one source of water—their extinguisher. Can Firefighter Donlon moved toward the fire room and fended off enough of the flames to permit Lt. Murphy and irons Firefighter Denn to search for victims in the front of the apartment.

In blistering heat and near darkness, FF Donlon located an unconscious victim and transmitted a 10-45 to Command. At the same time, Lt. Murphy, undaunted by the life-threatening danger, pushed toward the front bedroom. On his hands and knees, he felt his way through the hallway and entered a bedroom, where he found an unconscious man who was not breathing.

Realizing the man required resuscitation as soon as possible, he immediately evacuated him from the precarious scene. Still operating with limited visibility and an advancing fire rolling overhead, he pulled the man out of the bedroom, through the hallway and out of the apartment.

Due to the swift, decisive actions and coordinated efforts of the inside team, the victims were successfully removed to the street and transported to a local hospital.

Lieutenant Thomas Murphy was faced with a critically urgent situation—a rapidly advancing fire—and two unconscious victims. His decisive leadership and selfless bravery resulted in the successful rescue of a critically endangered civilian. For his bravery and fortitude, he is presented with the Albert S. Johnston Medal. —TMcP

Ladder Co. 175’s medal recipients FF Tim Donlon (left) and Lt. Thomas Murphy (right).

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Tracy Allen-Lee Medal February 18, 2025, 0800 hours, CAD 0758, Manhattan

Captain Alexander Khalef

Paramedic Jose D. Parra

Paramedic Paul Yoon

Appointed to the FDNY on January 8. 2007.

Previously assigned to Station 44, Station 35 and EMS FDOC. Holds a bachelor's degree in biology from CUNY Brooklyn College.

Also attended SUNY Stony Brook and CUNY City Tech. Recipient of two Unit Citations (2024, 2025) and multiple Pre-Hospital Saves.

Founded the FDNY EMS ice hockey team (firstever all-EMS hockey team in the world) in 2008.

Resides in Warren County, New Jersey, with wife Elisa and daughter Isla.

Appointed to the FDNY on October 31, 2016. Currently assigned to Station 8/XR1.

Previously assigned to Stations 4, 43, 39, 57 and 45. Joined Special Operations in 2018 and promoted to paramedic in November 2021. Attended Clarkson University. Recipient of a Unit Citation (01R) in 2025, several PreHospital Saves and 37H Unit of the Month.

Resides in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.

Appointed to the FDNY on September 8, 2014. Currently assigned to Station 8/XR1.

Previously assigned to Stations 27, 18, 7 and 4. Holds a bachelor's degree in emergency management from John Jay College and Bachelor of Science in nursing. Served as a medic in the South Korean Army. Recipient of the Tracy Allen-Lee Medal (2019) as well as multiple Unit Citations, Pre-Hospital Saves and Excellent Duty Awards. Member of the FDNY Phoenix Society. Resides in Cliffside Park, New Jersey.

Station 4

Station 4

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Station 4

n the morning of February 18, Following the initial rescue, Captain 2025, EMS units responded to Khalef maintained command presence a barricaded suspect incident in and operational control, coordinating Manhattan that rapidly escalated into a additional resources in anticipation of furhigh-risk, multi-patient operation. Assigned ther casualties. His proactive communias B04, Captain Alexander Khalef assumed cation ensured that incoming units were command of the EMS Medical Branch, rapidly deployed and integrated into the overseeing a coordinated response alongoperation, a critical factor in the incident’s side multiple units, including 01R3 Paraoverall success. medics Paul Yoon and Jose Parra and 01H3 Left to right: Paramedic Yoon, Capt. Khalef and Approximately one hour later, the Paramedic Parra EMTs Ronell Lewis and Christian Ridge. barricaded suspect was removed from Initial operations were marked by limited information, as NYPD the apartment with multiple gunshot wounds. Paramedic Yoon units were actively searching for a suspect reported to have fired immediately initiated advanced life-saving care. Despite the paupon officers and barricaded inside an apartment. Recognizing tient’s agitated and combative state, Paramedic Yoon provided the volatility of the situation, Captain Khalef transmitted a code safe treatment and transport. Throughout, Captain Khalef en10-43 (for a non-fire-related rescue) and strategically positioned sured that care was rendered professionally and equitably, mainALS and BLS resources. As NYPD ESU operations progressed, taining the highest standards of EMS practice.

EMS units were moved from staging into the building, ultimately In total, three patients were treated and transported: one inadvancing to upper floors close to the threat. jured NYPD officer, the wounded suspect and a second officer Shortly after ESU positioned the units on the fifth floor, multi- with minor injuries. Even after patient removal, Captain Khalef ple gunshots were fired without warning. Captain Khalef, along continued to manage the scene, ensuring accountability of perwith Paramedics Yoon and Parra, immediately advanced to the sonnel and equipment, completing required notifications and sixth floor, where they located a downed NYPD officer in the hall- facilitating a structured debriefing for all involved members. way. Operating under active threat conditions, Paramedics Yoon The actions of Captain Khalef, Paramedic Yoon and Paramedand Parra demonstrated exceptional composure and courage, ic Parra exemplify extraordinary leadership, clinical excellence rapidly extricating the officer from danger. Advanced life-saving and bravery under fire. Their decisive actions directly contributed treatment was promptly applied to control a gunshot wound, to the rapid stabilization and transport of critically injured patients and a rapid trauma assessment was conducted to rule out addi- while operating in an active threat environment. For their courtional life-threatening injuries. The officer was then transported to age, professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty, they Bellevue Hospital with the assistance of EMTs Lewis and Ridge. are being recognized with the Tracy Allen-Lee Medal.—RL Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Vincent J. Kane Medal Firefighter John J. Berger II

Ladder Company 122 (assigned); Rescue Company 5 (detailed) January 15, 2025, 0616 hours, Box 22-2887, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on January 27, 2014. Now assigned to Rescue Co. 5. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 122. Served in the U.S. Army National Guard from 2006–2011, deploying in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Recipient of a Class B (2018). Member of the FDNY Emerald Society and Staff Sergeant Christian Engeldrum FDNY VFW Post #12033. Resides on Staten Island with wife Jamie and children James and John.

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n the morning of January 15, 2025, Rescue Company 5 responded to a second-alarm fire in Brooklyn. Arriving at a seven-story, multi-family apartment building, Rescue 5 found heavy fire pouring from a second-floor window after it had burst from the heat. As Rescue 5 approached, they learned that the apartment door had been left open, allowing thick smoke and fire to spread quickly. While Ladder Company 168 searched for the source of the fire, Engine 243 began stretching a hoseline to the second floor.

Battalion 42 directed Rescue 5 to help locate the fire apartment and support searches for trapped residents.

Firefighter John Berger, a detailed member of Rescue 5 (now assigned), announced that he would search the floor above the fire, the third floor, to ensure no one was trapped. He faced heavy smoke, high heat and zero visibility as he climbed the stairs above the fire, quickly donning his mask to continue.

In the third-floor hallway, FF Berger worked quickly despite punishing heat and darkness.

While searching, he heard a call for help from fellow Rescue 5 Firefighter Tim McGuire, who reported multiple people trapped in the stairwell. FF Berger quickly returned to the stairs and crawled to the next landing, moving through thick smoke and dangerous heat without the protection of a hoseline. Sweeping the landing with his hand, FF Berger found Post-operations conditions of a small child who was uncon- the hallway on the fire floor. scious and in need of immedi- (Photo by FDNY Bureau of Fire

ate rescue. He picked up the child and carefully crawled back past the fire floor, successfully bringing the child to safety at the command post.

FF Berger assessed the child and began life-saving treatment with equipment provided by engine company members. He then transferred the child to EMS personnel for further treatment.

After ensuring the child's care, FF Berger immediately returned to the third floor to resume his assigned duties, demonstrating unwavering dedication.

FF Berger’s knowledge, courage and quick thinking were instrumental in saving lives under extremely challenging conditions. He operated without the protection of a hoseline and under significant adversity, reflecting the utmost fearlessness and determination. Berger’s actions exemplify the highest standards of the FDNY. For his exceptional courage and selflessness, Firefighter John Berger is awarded the Vincent J. Kane Medal.—BC

Investigations)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Brummer Medal Firefighter Mark Hershey Rescue Company 2

February 14, 2025, 1024 hours, Box 22-1039, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on February 2, 2003. Previously assigned to Ladder Co. 123. Recipient of the Elsasser Medal (2004) and six Unit Citations. Resides in Manorville, New York. His children are Joey and Emily.

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he call for a reported fire came in on February 14, 2025, at 1024 hours. Rescue Company 2 was assigned to the incident in response to reports of victims trapped inside.

Upon transmission of the 10-75, fire was emanating from the top floor of a three-story, non-fireproof brownstone in the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn, with smoke pushing from the front door. A victim on the street confirmed that the second floor was engulfed in flames, prompting the quick transmission of a second alarm.

When Rescue Company 2 arrived on scene, members observed fire pushing out the third floor and heavy, acrid, black smoke emitting from the unventilated second-floor windows.

Seeing this, Firefighter Mark Hershey, Rescue 2’s chauffeur, realized that the primary search of the second floor had not yet been completed. FF Hershey headed up the stoop to the parlor floor while engine companies prepared to attack the fire. The entire third floor and stairs leading to it were already consumed by the blaze. FF Hershey donned his facepiece and started a right-hand search into the apartment on the second floor.

FF Hershey immediately encountered heavy clutter, blackout conditions and high heat. As fire consumed the parlor floor’s rear and middle room, he attempted to make his way

to the front of the apartment. He had to drop to the floor to avoid the intense temperature as he continued his search.

He encountered beds on either side of the room, searching under and around them to no avail. FF Hershey then made his way to the front and attempted to relieve the heat and smoke condition by venting the windows. This did little to change his dire circumstances. Bars on the front windows afforded no means of escape save for the same way FF Hershey had entered the apartment. Still, he continued his mission to look for potential survivors. It was then that he found an area between the front wall and a bed that was covered by a fallen bookshelf and debris.

FF Hershey moved the items and discovered an unconscious victim. He calmly and clearly transmitted 10-45 over the radio, which alerted the members operating that a victim had been found. FF Hershey then undertook the arduous task of removing the victim back through the cluttered apartment. At the same time, members of Ladder Company 113 entered and assisted him with removal of the victim.

FF Hershey showed great professionalism and tenacity in locating and rescuing the victim while enduring extreme conditions. As such, Firefighter Mark Hershey is awarded the Brummer Medal for his gallant efforts at Box 22-1039.—JD

February 14, 2025: Fire operations at Box 22-1039 (Citizen App)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Emerald Society Medal Firefighter Alfred J. Ronaldson Rescue Company 3

June 27, 2025, 2126 hours, Box 22-2760, Bronx

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Appointed to the FDNY on May 6, 2001. Previously assigned to Ladder Companies 33 and 59. Recipient of the John H. Prentice Medal (2010). Grandfather, Captain Herbert Ronaldson (now deceased), was retired from Ladder 82; father, Firefighter Alfred Ronaldson from Rescue Co. 3, died in the line of duty on March 5, 1991; brother, Firefighter Paul Ronaldson, is assigned to Ladder Co. 58. Resides in Montgomery, New York, with wife Jessica and their children Alfred, Ava, Luke and Amelia.

t was a hot summer night on Friday, June 27, 2025, in the borough of the Bronx when Rescue Company 3 received reports of a first-floor fire in a multiple-dwelling building. As members arrived on scene, Battalion 17 issued a 10-75 for a confirmed fire, and Rescue 3 was directed to assist other units in searching the upper floors of the building for a reported trapped civilian.

Once on scene, FF Alfred Ronaldson, who was assigned to the can position in Rescue 3, quickly climbed the building’s interior stairwell and made his way above the fire floor. As he did so, high levels of heat and thick, heavy smoke continued to vent from the fire apartment, limiting visibility and rapidly deteriorating conditions on the floors above.

Aware that anyone still inside was in grave danger, FF Ronaldson quickly pushed ahead, making his way to the third floor in search of the trapped civilian. He forced entry into multiple thirdfloor apartments until he eventually came across a disoriented occupant who was struggling to breathe. As FF Ronaldson safely guided the occupant to the building’s lobby, they informed him that their parents were still trapped inside the apartment and needed help.

FF Ronaldson immediately teamed up with the Ladder 59’s can firefighter, FF Daniel Strauss, and both men hurried back up to the third-floor apartment.

During their search, they locat-

ed an unconscious occupant lying on a couch and worked together to bring the victim down to the building lobby.

Despite their extreme exhaustion, the men knew there might be more occupants trapped upstairs and decided to make their way back to the apartment a third time.

This search proved even more challenging given the worsening conditions. Both members fought through intense heat and thick black smoke, feeling around in the dark until they located another unconscious occupant inside a bathroom. Once again, they carried the civilian down the stairwell to the lobby and handed them off to paramedics for life-saving care.

FF Ronaldson’s bold initiative and remarkable bravery allowed him to operate in extreme heat and smoke conditions well past the point of physical exhaustion.

The decisiveness shown by FF Ronaldson and the speed at which he conducted these rescues—a total of three minutes from removal of the first victim to removal of the third victim—were both critical to the survival of the trapped occupants. Firefighter Alfred Ronaldson’s actions are a shining example of what the New York City Fire Department has to offer, and he is therefore being awarded the Emerald Society Medal.—DB FF Ronaldson pushed through intense heat and black smoke in the apartment above the fire and found three victims. He found the last victim in this bathroom on the third floor. (Photo by Bureau of Fire Investigation)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Holy Name Society Medal Firefighter Daniel P. Strauss Ladder Company 59

June 27, 2025, 2126 hours, Box 22-2760, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on November 6, 2023. Previously rotated to Engine Co. 313. Holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Manhattan College. Resides in the Bronx with wife Pash.

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n June 27, 2025, Ladder Company 59 responded to As the men moved the civilian to a safe area, they were ina report of fire in the Bronx. Upon arrival, the first-due formed that the occupant’s parents were still trapped inside the Battalion—Battalion 17—transmitted signal 10-75, apartment and in dire need of help. Without hesitation, both confirming over the Department radio that units had a heavy members made their way back to the third floor to search the fire condition that originated on the first floor. Ladder 59’s in- apartment again. They quickly located one person unconscious side team dismounted the apparatus, grabbed their tools and on a couch and worked to move them to safety. Despite being quickly made their way inside the building. extremely exhausted and still battling zero-visibility conditions, As the second-due truck company assigned to the fire, both members returned to the same apartment a third time, Ladder 59’s mission was simple: search the floor above the determined to locate the final victim. Once again working tofire for any remaining victims and fire extension. Operating gether, the firefighters located the other parent, who was lying above a fire is one of the most precarious positions a fire- unconscious inside a bathroom. Both members swiftly carried fighter can be in, as high heat and smoke rise quickly through the victim, under punishing conditions, downstairs to safety. all building openings, enveloping the entire area above. LadFF Daniel Strauss’s brave actions directly contributed to the der 59’s inside team donned their facepieces and ascended successful removal of multiple unconscious civilians who were the stairs, where they battled through hot, blinding smoke facing life-threatening conditions. His strong initiative, ability conditions and began their assigned duties above the fire. to adapt under rapidly evolving conditions and unwavering After quickly searching the apartments above the fire focus on life-saving measures exemplify the highest traditions floor, Ladder 59’s officer observed that the stairwell remained of the fire service. It is for these reasons that Firefighter Daniel heavily filled with smoke. Recognizing the dangerous situ- Strauss is awarded the Holy Name Society Medal.—DB ation, he looked to alleviate conditions and assigned his can firefighter, FF Daniel Strauss, to break the windows on the half landing to help vent the smoke and heat outside. This would not only improve conditions for all firefighters operating on the fire floor, but also help remove the intense heat and blinding smoke from the hallway and floors above the fire. While completing this task, FF Strauss heard another firefighter call out for assistance. Without hesitation, he quickly made his way up the stairs to assist. It was on the third floor that he encountered Rescue 3’s Firefighter Al Ronaldson, who was assisting an injured occupant to safety. The occupant was extremely disoriented, and his safe removal required both March 8, 2025—Members of Engine Co.43 and Ladder 59 after operations at Bronx Box 2989, from left to right: firefighters to guide him outside Then-Captain Daniel O’Connell (E-43), FF Daniel Strauss (L-59), FF Tyler Cruz (E-43), FF Gaetan Lamy (E-43), FF Brennan Slattery (L-59), FF Tommy Zambrano (L-59), Lt. Kevin Rynne (L-59), FF John O’Brien (L-59), FF Tony Sannuto the building.

(E-43), FF Mark Dchiutiis (L-59), FF Dan Moynihan (E-43) and FF Danny Massa (E-43).

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Chief Wesley Williams Medal Firefighter Thomas J. Miele Ladder Company 133

October 9, 2025, 1806 hours, Box 75-5307, Queens Appointed to the FDNY on January 13, 2025. Previously served as an FDNY fire alarm dispatcher from March 2016 to March 2023. Member of the FDNY lacrosse team. Uncle, Firefighter Thomas Connelly, retired from Engine 282. Resides in Deer Park, New York.

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n October 9, 2025, at 1806 hours, Ladder Company 133 was assigned second due for a reported fire in a two-story private dwelling at Queens Box 5307. Upon arrival, units were met with heavy smoke and fire conditions on the first floor, along with reports of a person trapped on the second floor.

Ladder 133's inside team—Lieutenant Brian Cross, irons Firefighter Thomas Leopoldi and can Firefighter Thomas Miele— donned their face pieces at the front door and proceeded to the second floor to begin their search. They encountered a heavy smoke condition with high heat and zero visibility.

Lieutenant Cross ordered FF Leopoldi to conduct a righthand search toward the rear bedrooms while he conducted a left-hand search toward the front. FF Miele entered a rear bedroom doorway and began his search. As he did so, the bedroom window failed, and fire began rolling over his head.

October 9, 2025, Queens all-hands Box 5307. Members of Ladder Co. 133 from left to right: FF Thomas Miele, FF Thomas Leopoldi, Lt. Brian Cross, FF Cleon Alleyne and FF Bryan Cullen.

Fire was auto-exposing from the first floor into the room where he was searching. FF Miele immediately notified Lt. Cross, who called for a handline to the second floor. As conditions continued to worsen, FF Miele pressed on with his search.

His perseverance paid off when he swept the bed and located an unconscious victim. He transmitted the 10-45 via his handie-talkie and began the removal process, pulling the victim from the bedroom toward the interior stairs. The unconscious victim was brought to the street, where members of Engine Co. 275 began life-saving patient care until EMS took over. The elderly victim was transported to the hospital for further treament.

Firefighter Thomas Miele operated on the floor above a working fire, with conditions rapidly deteriorating around him and fire auto-exposing into the very room he was searching. Through perseverance, sound training and personal courage, he located an unconscious victim and initiated their removal: actions that undoubtedly saved a life. For his unwavering determination and bravery, he is awarded the Chief Wesley Williams Medal.—JP Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Ner Tamid Society Franklin Delano Roosevelt Medal Lieutenant Scott R. Altman Squad Company 41

June 25, 2025, 1952 hours, Box 75-2213, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on January 2, 2002. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 24. Served in the United States Marine Corps for 15 years. Recipient of a Unit Citation. Resides in Monroe, New York, with wife Jennifer and children Brittney, Taylor, Jason and Piper. Taylor and Jason are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces (Army and Marine Corps, respectively) and are unable to attend the ceremony, but they are proudly cheering their father on.

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he temperature on June 25, 2025, nearly set a record in New York City and was still in the low 90s after the night tour had begun.

At 1952 hours, Squad Company 41 was directed to respond to a 10-75 at Box 2213, a five-story, 100-foot-by-100foot, Class 3 occupied multiple dwelling for a fire on the first floor. As the company responded, the Bronx Communications Office notified the 3rd Battalion that they were receiving reports of people trapped in the building.

Upon arrival at the command post, Lieutenant Scott Altman was ordered by Battalion Chief Anthony Pullo, Battalion 3, to search the upper floors of the fire building for victims and fire extension. At the lobby entrance, Lt. Altman and his inside team, FF Alexander Hilliard and FF Matthew Guth, encountered high heat and thick, acrid smoke that obscured their vision and required the immediate use of their SCBA. Donning their face pieces, the members crawled from the lobby door to the right, toward the B wing, where Lt. Altman found the stairwell directly across from the open fire-apartment door. The rampant fire effectively turned the stairway into a chimney.

While Ladder Company 42 made their way into the fire apartment and the first-due

engine stretched the hoseline, Lt. Altman and his team made their way through the punishing heat to the third floor. He ordered his members to start a right-handed search as he searched left.

On his hands and knees in zero visibility, Lt. Altman located an unconscious woman at the far end of the public hallway. He immediately transmitted the location of the 10-45 to BC Pullo and began removing the unresponsive victim to the stairwell, calling out to FF Hilliard for assistance. Lt. Altman and FF Hilliard carried the victim down the stairs, through flue-like conditions and past the fire apartment to the lobby entrance. They transferred care to awaiting FDNY EMS members, who provided life-saving treatment to the woman prior to transporting her to the hospital. Lt. Altman and FF Hilliard returned to the upper floors of the building, where they completed their primary search before being relieved by the incident commander.

Had it not been for Lt. Altman and his determination and aggressive search above an uncontrolled fire, the victim surely would have perished. Lieutenant Scott Altman acted within the highest traditions of the New York City Fire Department and is presented with the Ner Tamid Society/Franklin Delano Roosevelt Medal.—TM Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Hispanic Society 23rd St. Fire Memorial Medal of Valor Firefighter Donal F. Finnegan Ladder Company 42

November 13, 2025, 0728 hours, Box 77-2377, Bronx

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Appointed to the FDNY on November 23, 1998. Has proudly served in Ladder Co. 42 for 27 years. Is also a plumbing mechanic. Recipient of the Emily Trevor/Mary B. Warren Medal (2008), a Class 3, five Unit Citations and WTC responder ribbon. Member of the FDNY Emerald Society, FDNY Holy Name Society and FDNY Honor Legion. Son, EMT Daniel Finnegan, is assigned to Station 16. Resides in Mohegan Lake, New York, with wife Janet and children Daniel, Matthew and Breanne.

s the end of the night tour approached, Ladder Company 42 received an alarm to respond to Bronx Box 2377 for a report of smoke from the sixth floor of a 14-story high-rise NYCHA building. As they responded, the Bronx Communication Office alerted responding units that they were loading up the box due to a report of people trapped.

Upon arrival, members of Ladder 42 observed a woman trapped behind a window gate on the sixth floor, with heavy smoke pushing around her. Firefighter Donal Finnegan, Ladder 42’s chauffeur—with help from Firefighter Brian Mahoney (outside vent)—expertly maneuvered the apparatus into the best possible position to effect the rescue of the panicked woman. FF Finnegan had to navigate several obstacles in order to place the aerial at the window, including a sidewalk shed, multiple dumpsters and two fully grown Sycamore trees nearly blocking access. With inches to spare, FF Finnegan placed the fully extended ladder at the windowsill, then quickly followed FF Mahoney up the aerial to assist in removal of the victim.

When FF Mahoney and FF Finnegan reached the window, the distraught woman told them her boyfriend was still trapped inside. FF Finnegan relayed this to his officer, Captain Jonathan Shields, as FF Mahoney started to work on removing the child gate. Captain Shields told FF Finnegan that the inside team was unable to make entry due to the apartment door being barricaded by clutter and was attempting to breach the wall from the adjoining apartment. Given that information, they decided that FF Mahoney would make en-

Members breached the wall of the adjoining apartment to advance Engine Co. 73's hoseline and remove the victim through the opening. (Photo by Bureau of Fire Investigation)

try from the window and search for the missing man while FF Finnegan removed the female victim at the window.

To make room for FF Mahoney to enter, the distressed woman briefly moved away from the window. FF Mahoney cleared the glass from the frame, donned his face piece and entered the apartment. Due to the heavy clutter in the apartment, when the female victim moved away from the window, she fell over and onto the floor. FF Finnegan moved to the tip of the aerial, removed the child gate and remaining glass and climbed into the apartment to assist the woman. He picked her up and placed her onto the tip of the aerial, but she started showing signs of distress, fearing for her safety.

FF Finnegan used webbing to secure her to the ladder as Engine Company 73 made entry through the breach to knock down the fire.

With conditions in the apartment improved and the breach between the apartments enlarged and padded to prevent further injury, FF Finnegan and other members removed the female victim from the aerial back into the apartment, through the breach to the adjoining apartment, then down into the lobby, where her care was transferred to awaiting members of FDNY EMS. Firefighter Donal Finnegan acted within the highest traditions of the Fire Department of the City of New York and is presented with the Hispanic Society/23rd Street Fire Memorial Medal of Valor.—TM

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Chief James Scullion Medal April 6, 2025, 1025 hours, CAD 1772, Brooklyn

Appointed to the FDNY on June 10, 2019. Promoted to firefighter in May 2025 and is currently assigned to Engine 282. Previously assigned to EMS Station 40.

Holds an associate degree in occupational studies from the College of Staten Island.

Recipient of a Unit of the Month award (June 2021).

Resides in Brooklyn with wife Kathryn.

Appointed to the FDNY on October 31, 2016. Previously assigned to Station 10 and temporarily to Station 22.

Recipient of COVID-19 commendation. Resides on Staten Island with wife Kelly.

Firefighter Joseph A. Marino

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EMT Vincent J. Polizzi

Station 40

Station 40

n April 6, 2025, two EMTs blood, coming up the stairs from responded to a call in the basement.

Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, The EMTs moved aside as the that would prove to be anything police officers ordered the man but routine. What began as a stanto drop the knife. When he didn’t dard emergency response quickly drop the weapon and continued escalated into a harrowing and to advance toward responders, life-threatening situation, putting the officers fired several shots, their fortitude, skills and training hitting the man in the chest. Deto the test. spite being momentarily disoriEMT Vincent Polizzi and thenented by the sound of discharged EMT Joseph Marino (now a fireweapons and bullets flying past fighter assigned to Engine Co. them, the crew immediately went 282) were dispatched to an asto work. EMT Marino began renbodycam footage of the moment just after EMT Polizzi kicked signment where a child caller NYPD dering care to the perpetrator, the door open. The EMTs and NYPD were confronted with a man reported herself and her siblings covered in blood and holding a meat cleaver. while EMT Polizzi ran down the being stabbed. The caller did stairs to the basement to aid the not know the exact address of her screaming children. location. The crew was met by four EMT Polizzi was met by a horrific NYPD officers who also did not have scene. A copious amount of blood the correct address. The members covered the floor. Three girls rangof both departments conducted a ing in age from 10 to 16 were found general search of the area, knocking in the immediate room, and the callon doors and asking bystanders for er, an 11-year-old girl, was found in any available information. The caller an adjacent room. All four girls had left the line open and was asking for significant life-threatening injuries. help, stating that her uncle was goEMT Polizzi called for additional ing to kill her whole family. resources and began caring for the The members were approached girls, controlling the bleeding. by a young boy who identified a two-family private residence The EMTs’ actions were nothing short of heroic and exas the call location. EMTs Polizzi and Marino approached the traordinary, from their initial persistence and absolute resolve apartment with NYPD, where knocking on the doors yielded to locate and save the children to their ability to think criticalno result. The EMTs and NYPD heard a child screaming and ly under extreme pressure. Their willingness to put their own attempted to force the door open. EMT Polizzi was able to safety on the line saved the lives of four young girls. EMT kick in the door, and as the door swung open, the EMTs and Vincent Polizzi and now-Firefighter Joseph Marino are the NYPD saw a man with a meat cleaver in hand, saturated in deserved recipients of the Chief James Scullion Medal.—NP Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Captain Denis W. Lane Memorial Medal Firefighter Patrick G. Corrigan Ladder Company 165

November 23, 2025, 0750 hours, Box 75-5643, Queens

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Appointed to the FDNY on January 14, 2013. Previously assigned to EMS Station 44 (2009–2012) and Engine Co. 214 (2013–2015). Member of the FDNY PSS/Rope Unit. Recipient of the Deputy Chief Orio Palmer Memorial Fitness Award (2018) and a Pre-Hospital Save (2011). Member of the FDNY Emerald Society and various FDNY teams—Running Club, Cycling, Multi-Sport-Triathlon and Alpine. Father, Deputy Chief Kevin Corrigan, retired from Division 11 in 2008. Resides in Wantagh, New York, with wife Catherine and son Colin.

n November 23, 2025, at 0750 hours, Ladder Company 165 was in quarters when they received a phone alarm reporting a fire in a private dwelling. While responding first due, Ladder 165 received additional information from the Queens communications office reporting occupants trapped. The dispatcher also transmitted the signal 10-30 due to the quality and quantity of calls for fire at the address.

Upon arrival, the members of Engine Company 317 and Ladder Company 165 observed heavy fire in the basement of a two-and-a-half story, peaked-roof private dwelling that was quickly extending to the first floor, and they promptly transmitted the 10-75. Firefighter Patrick Corrigan, assigned the roof position, brought a 24foot portable ladder down the exposure 2 side of the fire building to the rear.

As he set up the ladder, he observed turbulent, black smoke emanating from a second-floor bedroom window.

Knowing that there were reports of people trapped, FF Corrigan moved expeditiously to vent the window, skillfully and efficiently removed the child window guards and made entry into the second-floor bed- FF Patrick Corrigan, L-165 (left) and FF Julio Lopez, E-317 (right) Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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room to begin his search for trapped occupants.

He was immediately met with high heat and zero visibility. While searching through a significant clutter condition, FF Corrigan performed a sweep of the bed, where he discovered an unconscious victim. He immediately transmitted a 10-45 to his officer and prepared to remove the victim. The outside vent firefighter, Julio Lopez (detailed from Engine 317), joined FF Corrigan in the rear bedroom to assist with the removal and came upon a second unconscious victim, a child. The firefighters alerted Command, then immediately passed the child to a member of Ladder Company 150.

The child was removed to the street via the portable ladder FF Corrigan had placed. Firefighter Corrigan and Firefighter Lopez were then able to remove the occupant down the interior stairs and out the front door to the street, where the victim was handed off to EMS. The decisive actions and initiative demonstrated by Firefighter Patick Corrigan directly resulted in the discovery and rescue of an unconscious victim at this fire. For his efforts, he is awarded the Captain Denis W. Lane Memorial Medal.—SI

Uniformed Fire Officers Association Medal Lieutenant Joseph J. Murphy Jr. Ladder Company 29

June 16, 2025, 0055 hours, Box 75-2147, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on June 11, 2006. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 320 and Ladder Co. 167. Holds an associate degree in liberal arts from Nassau Community College. Father, Firefighter Joseph J. Murphy Sr., retired from Engine Co. 299. Resides in Whitestone, New York, with wife Susan.

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n New York City, fire operations often require officers to make immediate decisions in rapidly changing and dangerous conditions. Every second matters, and the actions taken in those first moments can mean the difference between life and death for trapped occupants.

In the early morning hours of June 16, 2025, companies responded to a fire in a six-story, non-fireproof multiple dwelling in the Bronx. Ladder Company 29 arrived in just over three minutes. Lieutenant Joseph Murphy Jr., the officer in the truck that night, was informed by neighbors that a victim was still inside the fire apartment.

As Lieutenant Murphy entered the fire apartment to conduct a primary search, he encountered a moderate clutter condition and a kitchen fully involved in fire. The apartment door opened directly into the fire area, but Lieutenant Murphy pushed past the fire without the protection of a

charged hoseline to begin a right-handed search down the hallway and toward the rear bedroom.

Upon entering the open living-room area, Lieutenant Murphy located an unconscious victim just outside the rear bedroom doorway. He quickly lifted the victim into a seated position and transmitted the 10-45. Firefighters Kevin Rodriguez and Matthew Keena of Ladder 29 had been searching the kitchen and quickly moved to assist Lieutenant Murphy with the removal. The victim was removed to the street, where EMS members treated the patient before transporting them to the hospital.

Lieutenant Murphy’s decisive actions, courage and determination in advancing past intense fire conditions led directly to the discovery and removal of a trapped occupant. For his life-saving actions, Lieutenant Joseph Murphy of Ladder Company 29 is awarded the Uniformed Fire Officers Association Medal.–CB

All-hands Bronx Box 2147 on June 16, 2025. From left to right: FF Steven Vila (E-46, det. L-29), FF Joshua Lopez (E-83), FF Andrew Linares (E-83), Lt. Tony Mazor (E-83), Lt. Joseph J. Murphy Jr. (L-29), FF Kevin Rodriguez (L-29), FF Matthew Keena (L-29), FF Christian White (E-83), FF Daniel Naranjo (E-83) and FF Kamil Wadolowski (L-29).

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Dr. Albert A. Cinelli Medal Firefighter Brendan J. Byrne Ladder Company 55

February 28, 2025, 2121 hours, Box 77-2309, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on December 12, 2016. Attended Iona College. Member of the FDNY Emerald Society and the FDNY Emerald Society Pipes and Drums. Resides in the Bronx.

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n February 28, 2025, at 9:21 p.m., Ladder Company 55 responded first due to Bronx Box 2309 for a reported fire on the 10th floor of a 20-story, fireproof multiple dwelling. Ladder 55’s inside team, composed of Lieutenant Adam Weinstein (covering officer) Firefighter Kevin Stapleton (can) and Firefighter Brendan Byrne (irons), took the elevator to the eighth floor and ascended the stairs. Upon entering the 10th-floor hallway, the members encountered a heavy smoke condition. Ladder 55 was able to pinpoint the source of the smoke to an apartment on the 10th floor.

The team moved swiftly to the fire apartment door and forced entry. Upon finding it locked, they immediately recognized the strong possibility that an occupant was trapped inside. As the door gave way, they were hit with an intense blast of heat and thick smoke, banked all the way down to the floor. Conditions were rapidly deteriorating. Immediately,

Lt. Weinstein transmitted the 10-77 to Battalion 26.

Without waiting for a charged hoseline to be stretched, the team made the push inside. Operating in near-zero visibility and high heat, they began an aggressive primary search, fully aware that every second could mean the difference between life and death.

As they pushed deeper into the apartment, Ladder 55 was met with heavy clutter, turning every step into a hazardous crawl through a maze of obstacles. While the members searched, faint cries for help could be heard coming from deeper within the apartment. Operating in zero visibility, FF Byrne honed in on the faint cries for help, advancing toward the sound.

As Ladder 55 pushed deeper into the apartment, they came upon the main body of fire burning in the kitchen. Lt. Weinstein quickly ordered FF Stapleton to knock back the flames with his water extinguisher, buying precious seconds as the fire began extending through the apartment. Without hesitation, FF Byrne pushed deeper into the hallway, crawling past the fully involved kitchen, where heat and fire threatened to cut off his exit. Reaching the far end of the hallway, roughly 20 feet from the apartment entrance, FF Byrne located the unconscious victim. FF Byrne alerted his officer that he had found the victim, and Lt. Weinstein quickly transmitted the 10-45 signal.

The heavy clutter throughout the apartment made the removal slow, difficult and physically taxing. FF Stapleton worked to clear a path, then joined FF Byrne in removing the victim to the public hallway. At the apartment entrance, the victim was transferred to Ladder Company 19, who carried them down to the building lobby.

FF Byrne’s initiative and determination directly contributed to this successful rescue, reflecting the highest traditions of the FDNY. In recognition of his outstanding performance and heroic efforts, Firefighter Brendan Byrne is being awarded the Dr. Albert A. Cinelli Medal.—KC

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Fire Chiefs Association Memorial Medal Firefighter Salvatore D. Rignola Ladder Company 109

September 27, 2025, 1537 hours, Box 75-1182, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on June 12, 2017. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 241. Holds an associate degree in psychology from College of Staten Island. Recipient of two Pre-Hospital Saves (2018 and 2021). Father, SFM Salvatore G. Rignola, retired in 2025 from the Bureau of Fire Investigation; grandfather, SFM Salvatore A. Rignola, retired from the Bureau of Fire Investigation in 2002. Resides on Staten Island with wife April and their children, Salvatore and Elliana.

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uring the afternoon hours of September 27, 2025, Ladder Company 109 was responding to reports of a stuck elevator when the Brooklyn Communications Office redirected them to Brooklyn Box 1182 for a reported fire on the second floor of a four-story building.

Upon arrival, Ladder 109 immediately transmitted a 1075 for fire venting from a second-floor window off the fire escape. Firefighter Salvatore Rignola, operating as Ladder 109’s outside vent firefighter, exited the apparatus and assessed the situation. With fire venting from a window off the fire escape and smoke emanating from two windows off a setback, FF Rignola determined that entering off the setback was his best option.

As he raised and climbed the 24-foot portable ladder, FF Rignola heard over the radio that the inside team was cut off by heavy clutter and fire at the apartment’s front door. There were multiple reports of a person trapped inside.

By this time, heavy fire now vented out of two windows and heavy black smoke vented from the kitchen window.

Because Ladder 109 was redirected and arrived before the first-due engine, FF Rignola determined that the inside team would not be able to enter through the front door with a handline in operation because it was still being stretched.

FF Rignola forced entry through the kitchen window and encountered high heat, zero visibility and heavy clutter conditions. He initiated a rapid search and located the arm of an unconscious victim buried beneath debris. FF Rignola freed the victim, but with fire extending into the entrance of the kitchen, he quickly determined that removal through the front door was not possible without a handline operating.

While transmitting a 10-45, FF Rignola made his way back to the kitchen window for removal, meeting Firefighter Matthew King of Rescue 5. Upon hearing the 10-45 transmission, Firefighter Christopher Serra (L-109, chauffeur) also climbed the portable ladder and carried the victim down to the ground before transferring them to EMS. Firefighter Rignola placed himself in a situation of great personal risk. He took initiative by switching to a portable ladder to access the only available window without visible fire and entered the apartment without the protection of a handline in zero visibility, conducting a life-saving search in heavy clutter conditions. He performed these actions swiftly and efficiently. For his efforts, Firefighter Salvatore Rignola is awarded the Fire Chiefs Association Memorial Medal.- AO

Upon arrival, Ladder Co. 109 confronted heavy fire venting out of the second-floor window off the fire escape. (Photo by Citizen)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Lieutenant Kirby McElhearn Medal January 10, 2025, 2333 hours - CAD 5761; 2339 hours - CAD 5784; 2353 hours - CAD 5599

Appointed to the FDNY on February 5, 2018. Currently in the Paramedic Basic Program (#40) at EMS Bureau of Training. Previously assigned to Communications EMD, Citywide PSAC 1. Holds an associate degree in criminal justice from Eastern Gateway Community College. Resides in Newark, New Jersey.

EMT Keenan W. Barrant

Appointed to the FDNY on July 1, 1997. Previously assigned to Station 10.

Holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice.

Recipient of Dispatcher of the Month (12/2011) and a Unit Citation (09/2018).

Resides in Yonkers, New York.

EMT Shafeeza Mangru

Public Safety Answering Center 1

Public Safety Answering Center 1

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Dispatcher EMT Barrant contacted Fire Dispatch while Citywide Dispatcher EMT Mangru coordinated progress reports and monitored the ongoing Queens incidents. Despite a notation from the Queens dispatcher stating a supervisor could be canceled, the Citywide dispatchers relied on their prior experience and judgment, anticipating that additional supervision might be needed.

Erring on the side of caution, they opted to retain this critical resource. They ensured no necessary information was omitted and appropriately upgraded the incident to an MCI80 – a hazardous materials incident.

In a further display of their expertise, Dispatchers Barrant and Mangru worked diligently to ensure hospital notifications were handled with exceptional foresight. For the Queens MCI80 event, they included distinct remarks for a hazardous materials/carbon dioxide incident and notified not only the two closest hospitals, but also a hyperbaric center. They immediately recognized its potential necessity based on the incident type and the paramedic unit’s entry into the job information. Anticipating on-scene needs, they verbally informed the medical branch director of the level-A notification to the appropriate hospitals. Their efforts ensured that all nine patients transported were received by hospitals that had been pre-notified and fully prepared, including the designated specialty center, which received four of the patients.

Their actions exceeded expectations and reflected a level of professionalism, teamwork and resourcefulness that exemplifies the highest standards of the Bureau of Communications. For their extraordinary work, Emergency Medical Citywide Dispatchers EMT Keenan Barrant and EMT Shafeeza Mangru are awarded the Lieutenant Kirby McElhearn Medal.—GA

mergency Medical Citywide Dispatchers EMT Keenan Barrant and EMT Shafeeza Mangru demonstrated exceptional professionalism during a challenging shift from late January 10 into the early hours of January 11, 2025. In a span of just 20 minutes, these two citywide dispatchers expertly managed three simultaneous mass casualty incidents while continuing to oversee the other essential functions of the Citywide Desk. Their ability to handle these dynamic situations with such precision and poise is a testament to their training, experience and commitment.

Each of the three mass casualty incidents required meticulous attention to detail, clear differentiation between assignments and precise resource allocation. The first incident in Queens was received at 11:33 p.m. It was announced, routed and appropriately dispatched, following the new Emergency Medical Dispatch matrix response, within six minutes. At 11;39 p.m., the dispatchers requested a Haz-Tac supervisor after receiving reports of multiple unconscious patients resulting from inhalation of fumes. Working together, the two dispatchers requested the closest paramedic unit from Queens while appropriately querying the Emergency Medical Computer Aided Dispatch System and requesting the nearest available supervisor, who was in Brooklyn. Understanding the critical nature of the situation, they requested that the Queens dispatcher obtain a report from the unit on scene and proactively assigned additional units.

At 11:53 p.m., a different call was upgraded to a mass casualty incident in Manhattan. This incident required a box number from a fire dispatcher. Demonstrating remarkable teamwork, Citywide

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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BC Frank T. Tuttlemondo Medal Firefighter Matthew S. Jezycki Ladder Company 172

April 24, 2025, 1455 hours, Box 75-2954, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on January 14, 2013. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 228. Father, Captain Michael Jezycki, retired from Engine 243 in 2009; uncle, Lt. Stephen Jezycki, retired from Engine 153 in 2005; cousin, FF Stephen Jezycki, is assigned to Ladder 168. Resides on Staten Island. His children are Matthew Jr. and Joseph.

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n April 24, 2025, at 1455 hours, Engine 330 and Ladder 172 were dispatched to Box 2954 for a report of a building fire in Brooklyn. Firefighter Matthew Jezycki, assigned to Ladder 172 and on house watch at the time, received the verbal alarm from a civilian reporting a house fire a block away. He promptly notified the dispatcher via the voice alarm and turned out the companies. As units left quarters, a visible smoke condition and a strong odor of burning wood confirmed the report. The companies arrived in under two minutes, and a 10-75 was transmitted for a fire on the first floor of a two-story, Class 3 multiple dwelling.

Upon arrival, units were notified that an elderly woman was trapped inside. First-floor windows had already self-vented, thick black smoke was pushing out and fire was showing.

Assigned as the irons firefighter, FF Jezycki forced entry into the building and through the public hallway. He then forced open and maintained control of the heavy-duty metal security door to the fire apartment, allowing numerous civilians to evacuate. However, the door remained partially blocked from the clutter condition inside. FF Jezycki pushed his way into the apartment with fire rolling overhead and a severely restricted means of egress. Without hesitation, he began a left-hand search for the trapped occupant.

Approximately 4 feet into the apartment, in the narrow, cluttered hallway behind the apartment door, FF Jezycki located the unconscious victim. Using his body to shield her from the intense heat, he began the difficult removal. The door's hinge placement on the hallway side presented an additional obstacle, having to remain closed until FF Jezycki could maneuver the victim past it and into the kitchen. Once there, his captain, Michael Russo, was able to enter and assist with the removal, while the engine company advanced the hoseline to extinguish the fire. The victim was brought to the front of the building, where FDNY EMS initiated patient care. FF Jezycki then returned to the fire apartment to continue searches. The victim was transported to the hospital for further care and treatment.

Through personal bravery, sound judgment and decisive action under extreme conditions, FF Jezycki entered a fire apartment alone and without the protection of a hoseline, located an unconscious victim and successfully removed her from the im-

mediate fire area—undoubtedly saving her life. Firefighter Matthew Jezycki is awarded the Battalion Chief Frank T. Tuttlemondo Medal.—JP

Members of Ladder 172 just after the fire on April 24, 2025, left to right: FF John Lucchesi, FF Michael Mancuso, (now) Lt. Joseph Manto, Capt. Michael Russo, FF Matthew Jezycki, FF Matthew Sekzer (E-330)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Dr. John F. Connell Medal Firefighter Christopher M. Colleran Squad Company 41

November 4, 2025, 1509 hours, Box 75-2534, Bronx

Appointed to the FDNY on June 29, 2015. Previously assigned to Ladder 17. Holds a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies from New York Institute of Technology. Recipient of two Unit Citations in 2022. Resides in Goshen, New York, with wife Cara and children Harper, Maisley and Grady.

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n the afternoon of November 4, 2025, Bronx Box 2534 was transmitted for a reported fire on the third floor of a six-story, 120-foot-by-120-foot, non-fireproof occupied multiple dwelling. Due to the sheer volume of calls, the Bronx Communications Office received, the box was loaded up, and Squad Company 41 was directed to respond. While en route, Battalion 17 transmitted a 10-75 for fire in an apartment on the third floor.

When Squad Company 41 arrived at the command post, Battalion Chief Daniel O'Sullivan, Battalion 17, ordered Captain Thomas McHugh, along with FF Christopher Colleran and FF Sean Heater, to search the upper floors of the building for victims and fire extension.

Climbing to the third floor, the members encountered an intense heat and smoke condition. They donned their face pieces and proceeded up the stairwell, past an uncontrolled fire and without the protection of a charged hoseline. As Captain McHugh and FF Heater stopped to search the fourth floor, FF Colleran continued to the fifth floor to search.

Through the punishing conditions of the open public hallway, FF Colleran, crawling on his hands and knees, completed a primary search with negative results. Pressing

on, FF Colleran returned to the stairwell with the intention of searching the sixth floor. As FF Colleran started to climb the stairs, he located two unconscious teenage girls overcome by smoke in the stairwell. Transmitting his discovery and location of the two 10-45s to the incident commander, FF Colleran requested assistance in their removal from their perilous position.

With the help of FF Heater, FF Brian Ross of Squad Company 41 and FF Michael O'Brien of Rescue Company 3, FF Colleran removed the unconscious teenagers to the lobby, where they began life-saving measures until they were relieved by members of FDNY EMS. FF Colleran then returned to the top floor of the fire building to complete his firefighting duties before Squad Company 41 was relieved by the incident commander.

In his report, Battalion Chief O'Sullivan remarked, “FF Colleran performed bravely and capably in severe and rapidly deteriorating conditions, avoiding a tragic situation and resulting in the rescue of both victims.” Firefighter Christoper Colleran's actions reflect the highest standards of courage and professionalism, for which he is awarded the Dr. John F. Connell Medal.—TM

Photo courtesy of Benjamin Dicker

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Lieutenant John H. Martinson Medal Firefighter Patrick R. Orlando Ladder Company 147

December 23, 2025, 1645 hours, Box 75-3748, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on April 24, 2023. Holds a bachelor's degree in finance from the Pennsylvania State University. Father, Captain Robert Orlando Jr., retired from Ladder Co. 79 in 2016. Grandfather, Lieutenant Robert Orlando, retired from Engine Co. 278 in 1977. Resides on Staten Island.

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n December 23, 2025, at 1645 hours, Ladder Company 147 received a call for fire at Box 3748. While en route, the Brooklyn dispatcher informed them that occupants were reported trapped on the second floor of a four-story, non-fireproof multiple dwelling.

Upon arrival, the company was met with frantic residents reporting people trapped inside. Ladder 147’s inside team—Firefighter Patrick Orlando (irons), Firefighter Matthew Gildersleeve (can) and Captain Troy Taldone (Div. 15, covering in L-147)—made their way up to the interior stairs. A 10-75 was transmitted for fire on the second floor as their ascension was hampered by escaping residents in the stairwell.

As Ladder 147 arrived on the second floor, the team encountered heavy smoke pushing under pressure from the fire apartment door. FF Orlando and FF Gildersleeve forced entry into the apartment, where they were met with zero visibility, high heat and a severe clutter condition.

Under Captain Taldone’s direction, FF Orlando donned his face piece and started a right-handed search, while also clearing debris with FF Gildersleeve to improve access for the engine. Captain Taldone proceeded down the hallway and found the main body of fire located in the living room, while Ladder 147’s roof firefighter, John Evans, transmitted

that an occupant was trapped behind fire at a courtyard window and that a roof rope rescue was being set up.

FF Orlando proceeded into the apartment, crawling past the fire in the living room. He could hear a person moaning down the hallway. With the fire growing in intensity, he pushed farther into the apartment. FF Gildersleeve located an unconscious victim in the hallway, and as he began removing the victim, he told FF Orlando that he had heard groaning coming from a back bedroom.

FF Orlando continued deeper into the fire apartment, locating a second unconscious victim in a rear bedroom and transmitting the additional 10-45. Recognizing that the engine was now advancing on the main body of fire, he made the decision to shelter the victim in place, closing the bedroom door to protect the occupant from the heat and smoke until removal could be safely completed.

Firefighter Patrick Orlando entered a fire apartment under life-threatening conditions and passed an advancing fire without the protection of a hoseline to help rescue two civilians. His judgment and courage in the face of extraordinary danger reflect the highest traditions of the Fire Department of the City of New York. For his extraordinary efforts, he the first-ever member to receive the Lieutenant John H. Martinson Medal.—JP

Members of Ladder Co. 147 who operated at Brooklyn Box 3748, from left to right: Captain Troy Taldone (Div. 15), FF John Evans, FF Patrick Orlando, FF Matthew Gildersleeve, FF Damon Anderson and FF Nicholas Velez. (Photo by Brian Grogan)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Fire Bell Club Medal Firefighter John P. Daly Jr.

Ladder 58 (assigned); Marine 4 (detailed) June 7, 2025, 2003 hours, Box 8855—east of Hart Island in the Long Island Sound, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on May 17, 1998, and retired in October 2025. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 36 from 1998–2003 and Ladder Co. 58 from 2003–2025; detailed to the Marine Battalion Rapid Response Craft (RRC) April 2025–September 2025. Recipient of a Unit Citation (L-58) in 2012. Resides in Shrub Oak, New York, with wife Jennifer and daughter Sara.

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hile out on patrol and monitoring the radio on the evening of June 7, 2025, Marine 4 received a mayday transmission for a vessel on fire in the vicinity of Hart Island. Positioned just north of Hart Island, near Orchard Beach, Marine 4 headed south and immediately saw a pillar of black smoke rising in the distance.

They knew they had to act quickly.

Firefighter John Daly, assigned as the backup rescue swimmer, immediately began preparing the primary rescue swimmer, Firefighter Eric Falk, and establishing a tether line. As Marine 4 approached the chaotic scene, members discovered 23 victims in the water among large amounts of fire and debris. Firefighter Daly knew this would be a complicated rescue. As FF Falk dove into the water to assist a semi-submerged victim, FF Daly quickly noticed an immediate life hazard. A large man was struggling to stay afloat, desperately clinging to a woman who was also fighting to stay above water. The man’s weight was pulling the woman underwater even though she held on to a child’s personal flotation device. Without a tether and without hesitation, FF Daly dove into the cold, debris-filled water and rapidly swam about 35 yards to the two victims. He firmly secured the victims with both of his

arms, knowing that swimming up current with two victims in tow—and the Marine’s vessel drifting away—would be a tremendous feat. He managed to keep both victims afloat while making sustained progress back to Marine 4, using every bit of energy he had. It was then that FF Falk reentered the water and swam out to assist FF Daly and the two victims. FF Daly would not give up his grip on the victims, as he felt they might be lost. With tenacity and drive, FF Daly and FF Falk were able to assist both victims onto Marine 4. Once safely on board, FF Daly assessed the victims and provided life-saving treatment to both. He then immediately assisted with life-saving treatment on an additional victim already brought on board as Marine 4 made its way to the Hart Island Ferry Terminal, where EMS resources were awaiting.

During this extremely challenging water rescue operation, FF Daly displayed great courage and tireless effort fighting against strong currents and exhaustion to save two victims and assist a third. Firefighter John Daly’s bravery and decisive actions undoubtedly saved these three victims and are representative of the highest traditions of the New York City Fire Department. For his tremendous efforts, he is awarded the Fire Bell Club Medal.—MB

After the three victims were transferred to land units, Marine 4 and a Long-Island-based fire rescue company returned to fight the fire, which Marine 6 ultimately helped extinguish. (Photo by FDNY Command Tactical Unit)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Firefighter David J. DeFranco Medal Firefighter Eric A. Falk

Engine 265 (assigned); Marine 4 (detailed) June 7, 2025, 2003 hours, Box 8855—east of Hart Island in the Long Island Sound, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on February 2, 2003. Holds an associate of arts degree from Nassau Community College. Studied biology at Hofstra University. Resides in Seaford, New York, with wife Christen.

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hile out on patrol and ing life-saving measures on the monitoring the radio on first victim as Marine 4 conducted the evening of June 7, a rapid victim transport to awaiting 2025, Marine 4 received a mayday EMS units at the Hart Island Ferry transmission for a vessel on fire Terminal. Marine 4 arrived at the in the vicinity of Hart Island. Podock, and the victim began regainsitioned just north of Hart Island, ing consciousness as she was offnear Orchard Beach, members loaded to awaiting EMS personnel. looked south and saw a column of During this dangerous water black smoke rising into the evening rescue operation, FF Eric Falk dissky. Marine 4 had to act quickly. played great courage and quick Firefighter Eric Falk, the asdecision-making skills. When givsigned rescue swimmer for the tour, en the opportunity to reach the knew he would be put to work and victim before conditions worsquickly donned his cold-water suit ened, Firefighter Falk acted withand swift-water personal flotation out hesitation and moved swiftly device (PFD). As he did so, Marine to assist. For his bravery, decisive 4 navigated into the debris field action and resolve to place the and discovered a 36-foot yacht victim's life above his own safeengulfed in flames and 23 people ty, which undoubtedly saved this afloat in the water. FF Falk quickly person's life, Firefighter Eric Falk assessed the many victims and saw is awarded the Firefighter David J. one in immediate peril nearly 50 Members of Marine 4 who operated on June 7, 2025, from left to right: DeFranco Medal.—MB yards away. On tether, he jumped Lt. Nicholas Feeley, FF Eric Falk, FF John Daly Jr. and FF Kelly Lyons. into the cold and debris-laden water, reaching a teenage victim just as she slipped beneath the water’s surface.

FF Falk instinctively dove down and retrieved the unconscious victim, lifting her head above water. He then swam the victim 50 yards back to Marine 4, where he handed her off to other members who assessed the victim and began life-saving interventions.

FF Falk was then directed to aid another member, Firefighter John Daly (backup rescue swimmer). Untethered, FF Daly was in the water pulling in two victims, fighting the current to catch up to the drifting vessel. Firefighter Falk plunged back into the water and swam to assist the other victims, ultimately helping to get them onto the deck of Marine 4. Once aboard, he assisted in perform- After the victims were transferred to land units, Marine 4, with FF Falk at the bow operating the fire pump, began extinguishing the fire.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Deputy Commissioner Christine R. Godek Medal January 28, 2025, 0656 hours, Box 2389, Bronx

Supervising Fire Marshal Bryan Fealy

Appointed to the FDNY on March 25, 2007. At the time of the incident, he was a fire marshal in Citywide North Command. Promoted to supervising fire marshal in February 2025. Previously assigned to Citywide South Command (2025–2026), Citywide North Command (2020–2025) and Ladder Co. 25 (2007–2020). Recipient of one Class A (2022), two Class Bs (2022, 2025) and two Unit Citations (2015, 2025). Member of the FDNY Incident Management Team.

Father, Lieutenant Edward Fealy, retired in 2002. Resides in Mount Vernon, New York, with wife Elaina and children Emma and Jack.

Appointed to the FDNY on July 14, 2014. Currently assigned to the Executive Protection Unit. Previously assigned to Citywide North Command and Tower Ladder Co. 21. Holds an associate degree in liberal arts from National University. He is an Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN) certified health coach. Resides in Chester, New York, with wife Natalka and son Aiden.

Fire Marshal Derek Harwood

Citywide North Command

Citywide North Command

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uring the morning hours of January 28, 2025, Battalion 26 transmitted a 10-41 Code 1 for a suspicious fire in a five-story occupied multiple dwelling in the Morrisania section of the Bronx. Responding units found that a large quantity of rubbish had been intentionally ignited in the building’s front interior vestibule. The fire obstructed the primary means of egress and quickly produced a heavy smoke condition, placing numerous residents in immediate danger.

Members of the Bureau of Fire Investigation (BFI) Citywide North Command initiated what would become a comprehensive 13-day investigation. Fire Marshals Derek Harwood and Bryan Fealy responded and conducted a detailed and systematic scene examination. Their work included photographing and documenting the fire, collecting physical evidence and obtaining multiple witness statements. A BFI K9 later provided a positive indication for accelerants, supporting an incendiary cause. Early in the investigation, the marshals identified a 58-year-old convicted felon as the primary suspect. He had recently been released after serving a 20-year prison sentence and had a history of arson-related offenses.

As the investigation progressed, Fire Marshals Harwood and Fealy developed evidence linking the suspect to additional violent incidents. These included another fire inside of another occupied multiple dwelling and an attempt to set a woman on fire inside a vehicle using lighter fluid.

An extensive video canvass spanning approximately five miles was conducted, resulting in surveillance footage that placed the suspect at multiple incident locations and established a consistent pattern of movement.

Fire Marshal Fealy guided Fire Marshal Harwood in the use of social media and open-source intelligence platforms,

supplementing traditional investigative techniques. This effort led to the identification of the suspect as a person of interest in a separate assault in which a woman was sprayed in the face with a caustic substance and slashed, causing serious injury. Further investigation revealed two additional attempted assaults aboard an NYC MTA bus, during which the suspect attempted to ignite passengers.

Through persistent and coordinated efforts, Fire Marshals Harwood and Fealy secured sworn statements, conducted identification procedures and established probable cause across multiple incidents. While continuing their investigation, they received information from an NYPD radio transmission reporting an individual attempting to set people on fire inside a hardware store. Recognizing the location as part of the suspect’s established travel corridor, they responded immediately.

Upon their arrival, the store manager identified the suspect, who had fled on foot. Fire Marshals Harwood and Fealy immediately conducted a canvass of the surrounding area and located the suspect a short time later. At the time of arrest, he was found in possession of a knife, pepper spray and multiple lighters.

The suspect was subsequently charged with multiple counts of arson, assault, burglary and reckless endangerment. The decisive and courageous actions of Fire Marshals Harwood and Fealy, undertaken in the face of significant personal risk posed by a violent, repeat offender and serial arsonist, directly safeguarded lives and property.

Their professionalism, determination and unwavering commitment to duty reflect the highest standards of the Fire Department. For these actions, they are awarded the Deputy Commissioner Christine R. Godek Medal.—MJK

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Probationary Firefighter Thomas A. Wylie Medal Firefighter John A. Palmer Ladder Company 144

September 12, 2025, 0621 hours, Box 22-4527, Queens Appointed to the FDNY on February 19, 2019. Promoted to firefighter in January 2025. Previously assigned to EMS Station 59. Holds a bachelor's degree in political science from Adelphi University. Resides in Glen Oaks, New York, with his fiancée, Jill, and son Nathan.

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n the early morning hours on September 12, 2025, Ladder Company 144 responded second due to a reported fire in a two-story, flat-roof private dwelling in the College Point section of Queens. While responding, the company saw a large column of black smoke in the direction of the reported fire. Ladder 144 arrived on scene, just as Ladder Company 130 transmitted a second alarm for fire in two buildings.

As Ladder 144 performed their size up, a woman reported that her father was trapped on the second floor. Fire and heavy smoke were showing from the first-floor window on the exposure 2 side. At this time, Engine Company 297 was stretching the first hoseline up the stoop to the first floor.

The inside team of Ladder 144—Captain Joseph Canale, Firefighter Rafael Hernandez with the irons and Probationary Firefighter John Palmer with the can—determined that the best route to the second floor was through the front door.

The inside team masked up and climbed to the second floor, where they were met with high heat and zero visibility.

At the top of the stairs, they encountered a locked apartment door, which was difficult to force because of the fire

conditions and the small landing. Firefighters Hernandez and Palmer were able to force the door and began their primary search.

FF Palmer made a right-handed search and located an inward-opening door. He opened the door, entered the room and found an unconscious, unresponsive victim lying on his back with his head toward the door. FF Palmer determined he was in a bathroom, gave the 10-45 and completed his search of the room. FF Hernandez quickly made his way to the bathroom to assist FF Palmer with the removal of the victim.

Together, they brought the victim to the narrow landing at the top of the stairs, where they passed him off to other members who removed him from the building. Once outside the fire building, the victim was passed off to the members of Engine Company 274, who performed life-saving medical treatment. FF Palmer and FF Hernandez then continued their searches and checked for fire extension. They found extension on the exposure 2 side of the building, and a hoseline was called for to extinguish the fire.

For his aggressive and determined actions, which resulted in the victim surviving the fire, Firefighter John A. Palmer of Ladder 144 is being honored with the Probationary Firefighter Thomas A. Wylie Medal.—NG

Members of Tower Ladder Co. 144 on September 12, 2025, following operations at Queens Box 22-4527. From left to right: FF Rafael Hernandez, PFF John Palmer, Capt. Joseph Canale, FF Frank Clancy IV and PFF Nicholas Tursi.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Firefighter Kevin C. Kane Medal Lieutenant James M. Corey Ladder Company 6

March 31, 2025, 1315 hours, Box 0208—East River, south of Manhattan Bridge, Manhattan Appointed to the FDNY on June 29, 2015. Promoted to lieutenant in May of 2025. Currently assigned to Engine Co. 45. He was assigned to Ladder 6 as a firefighter at the time of the incident. Holds a bachelor's degree in broadcast journalism from Quinnipiac University. Resides on Staten Island with wife Kristy and daughter Clara.

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ast-moving water rescues are challenging in themselves. Add freezing temperatures, an incapacitated victim and a seawall extraction point, and a challenging situation can quickly feel almost insurmountable.

Such an event occurred on March 31, 2025, when the members of Engine Company 9 and Ladder Company 6 responded to the East River for a person in the water.

Once on scene, Lieutenant Louis Chan of Engine 9 performed a primary search to locate the victim. His efforts were impeded by an extensive construction project.

Noticing that a large crowd had formed some 150 feet south of the Manhattan Bridge, Lieutenant Chan headed over with his company to confirm the location of the victim and informed Ladder 6. Meanwhile, Ladder 6’s designated rescue swimmers, then-firefighter James Corey and Firefighter Wilson Lam, prepared for possible entry into the East River.

Now on scene, members of Ladder 6 tossed their tethered life-saving ring toward the victim and instructed him to grab the floatation device. The victim was visibly exhausted as members of Engine 9 and Ladder 6 pulled him to shore. At the shoreline, members attempted to hoist the victim up the sea wall using the rope tether and life-saving ring.

Exhaustion had taken its toll. Approximately three-quarters of the way up the sea wall, the victim lost hold of the flotation device and plunged back into the

frigid river. Upon seeing the victim submerge beneath the icy water and knowing how strong the current was, FF Corey, acting as the primary water rescuer, immediately jumped into the water while tethered to his donned personal flotation device. He quickly swam to rescue the victim from the dangerous current.

FF Corey brought the victim back to the shore, where members had deployed a portable ladder along the sea wall to assist with removal. With the victim still incapacitated, the rescue became even more difficult as members of Engine 9 and Ladder 6 also had to keep the ladder taut while assisting. At the same time, FF Corey continued to support removal from the base of the ladder to ensure that the victim did not fall back into the water.

Once the victim was removed from the frigid East River, he was brought over a wrought-iron fence to safety, where members of Engine 9 provided immediate medical care before he was handed off to EMS and transported to the hospital.

If not for the actions of the members, especially FF Corey, the results of this call could have been devastating.

Instead, Firefighter Corey demonstrated decisive and methodical action by braving the icy water and harsh current of the East River to rescue the victim. For his actions at Manhattan Alarm Box 0208, Lieutenant James Corey is awarded the Firefighter Kevin C. Kane Medal.—JD

Left: Ladder Co. 6 and Engine Co. 9. Members who operated at the incident are Lt. Corey—bottom row, third from right); FF Jason Morrissey (LCC)—bottom row, last on right; FF John Schmitt (ECC)—bottom row, first on left; Lt. Louis Chan—bottom row, fourth from left; FF Justin Wu—top row, first on right; and FF Wilson Lam—third row, fifth from right. Right: Ladder Co. 6's then-Firefighter James Corey on the Manhattan Bridge.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Captain John J. Drennan Memorial Medal Firefighter Alexander D. Raynor Ladder Company 37

April 23, 2025, 1746 hours, Box 75-3391, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on June 11, 2018. Previously assigned to Engine Co. 79. Holds a bachelor's degree in environmental science and wilderness education from SUNY Potsdam. Recipient of three Pre-Hospital Saves (2019), a Unit Citation (2020) and a Service Rating A (2025). Member of the FDNY Emerald Society. Father, Firefighter John D. Raynor, retired from Rescue Co. 1 in 2019. Resides in Warwick, New York, with wife Kerry.

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n the evening of April 23, 2025, members of Ladder Company 37 responded to Bronx Box 3391 for a report of smoke in an apartment on the second floor of a large, six-story, H-type apartment building. Upon arrival, the inside team quickly climbed the stairwell to the reported fire floor, where they were met with heavy smoke and high heat pushing from the apartment door—on the other side of which, they knew, would be a heavy volume of fire.

Ladder 37’s Captain William Mannion transmitted the 10-75 and ordered his inside team to force entry into the locked apartment. Firefighter Alexander Raynor (irons) and Firefighter Ryan Flatley (can) gained access to the apartment and controlled the door. After masking up, the team entered the fire apartment, and Captain Mannion and FF Flatley began a left-hand search of the apartment while FF Raynor began a right-hand search.

The members were immediately met with high heat and heavy smoke, which only worsened as they worked their

way through the apartment. With zero visibility, FF Raynor’s search took him through the kitchen and into the living room, where the main body of fire was located.

Knowing that the first handline was still being stretched and operating without the protection of a hoseline, FF Raynor made the quick and courageous decision to move rapidly past the fire toward the rear of the apartment, where he discovered the body of an unconscious resident on the floor of the bathroom. He immediately transmitted a 10-45 and began removing the victim back toward the front door and to the public hallway, 25 feet from where he was found.

Because there was no door to isolate the fire area, FF Flatley held the fire back with the extinguisher while FF Raynor brought the victim to safety. Once they reached the public hallway, FF Raynor performed patient care until second-due Engine Company 81 arrived and took the victim to the lobby of the building, where they were met by EMS. FF Raynor returned to the fire apartment, where he completed his primary search and confirmed there were no other victims. For his extreme bravery and monumental efforts during this life-saving operation, Firefighter Alexander Raynor is awarded the Captain John J. Drennan Memorial Medal.—NLG

Members of Ladder Company 37 who operated at Bronx Box 75-3391 on April 23, 2025. From left to right: FF Ryan Flatley, FF Mike Walsh, FF Alex Raynor, Captain Will Mannion and FF Laurie Galioto.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Jack Pintchik Medal June 13, 2025, 0847 hours, CAD 1366, Bronx

Appointed to the FDNY on September 12, 2023. Attended Westchester Community College.

Resides in Brewster, New York.

Appointed to the FDNY on June 3, 2024. Attended SUNY Maritime and Suffolk Community College.

Father, Captain Kevin Michaels, retired from Ladder Co. 39 in 2022. Resides in Islip Terrace, New York.

EMT Ryan C. Bonamici

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EMT Matthew L. Michaels

Station 15

Station 15

n the morning of June 13, 2025, EMTs Ryan Bonamici and Matthew Michaels (Unit 15F) began their day like any other at EMS Station 15, which is in one of the busiest divisions in the city. Eight minutes after they logged on for the day, they received an assignment on White Plains Road in the Bronx that ended in a Refusal of Medical Assistance (RMA). While on scene and finishing up, they noticed a large amount of smoke rising above the elevated subway tracks. Upon further investigation, they realized smoke and flames were coming from a nearby building. EMTs Bonamici and Michaels quickly drove toward the building and made a priority radio transmission advising dispatch of the situation.

When 15F arrived on scene, the crew were met with alarmed residents who were pouring out of the building. Many residents reported people trapped on the third floor. With no fire suppression companies yet on scene, the EMTs knew they had to act immediately. EMTs Bonamici and Michaels entered the building and made their way to the third floor.

The members shouted and banged on walls and doors to alert residents of the fast-moving fire and urge them to evacuate the building.

On the third floor,

they encountered the fire apartment, which was inaccessible due to the fire condition. The crew banged the walls and instructed occupants to exit through windows and the fire escape. Their urgent efforts successfully alerted the top-floor occupants, who were able to exit via the fire escape on the other side of the building. The members then went down to the second and first floors, where they continued to assist residents in evacuating the building, including assisting two individuals with their dog.

EMTs Michaels and Bonamici exited the building and began triaging and treating patients, identifying a collection point and quickly deciding which individuals needed priority treatment and transport. The courage, decisive actions and quick thinking of EMT Ryan Bonamici and EMT Matthew Michaels saved lives on June 13. Their actions reflect the highest standard of duty in the FDNY, for which they are awarded the Jack Pintchik Medal.—DC

EMT Matthew Michaels (left) and EMT Ryan Bonamici (right)

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Captain Alison Russo North Star Medal Lieutenant Brian W. Cotiaux EMS Special Operations Command June 22, 2025, 1931 hours, CAD 4283, Bronx Appointed to the FDNY on September 21, 2015. Previously assigned to Stations 39, 26 and 54. Holds an associate of arts degree from Suffolk Community College. Recipient of multiple Pre-Hospital Saves, a Unit Citation Accomplishment with Merits (2022), a Unit Citation Excellent Duty (2022), Officer of the Quarter (2003) and OMA Award for Clinical Excellence (2024, 2025). Served as a corporal in the United States Marine Corps (2003–2007) and was deployed twice to Iraq—Operation Iraqi Freedom and Global War on Terrorism.

Resides in Centereach, New York, with wife Deborah and their children Ethan, Aiden, Grace and Noah.

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n the evening of June 22, 2025, LieuCotiaux maintained clear command of the medtenant Brian Cotiaux of FDNY EMS ical operation and exceptional composure Special Operations Command under pressure, coordinating with multiple demonstrated exceptional courage, deEMS units and firefighters. As he returned cisive leadership and clinical expertise to the command post, additional maydays during a rapidly evolving fireground crackled over the radio for a ceiling that emergency in the Bronx where multiple had fallen on two firefighters. Cotiaux met maydays were transmitted. the two injured members as they exited At approximately 1931 hours, Lieuthe fire building, triaging them and ensurtenant Cotiaux of FDNY EMS Special Opering they received medical care. ations Command (HT13) was dispatched to Thanks to the swift actions, medical exa multiple-alarm fire at Box 3360. As fire oppertise and decisive leadership displayed by erations intensified, a mayday transmission was Lieutenant Cotiaux and the members assisting broadcast, and firefighters reported that a firefighthim, the condition of the first firefighter he treated er had been removed from the building unconscious, improved significantly during transport. In the days that requiring immediate medical assistance. Lieutenant Cotiaux followed, he recovered from the effects of smoke inhalation notified Citywide 1, requested additional units and responded and was ultimately able to walk out of the hospital under his without hesitation to the front of the fire building. He located own power. the downed firefighter, immediately recognizing the severity of Lieutenant Cotiaux’s actions exemplify the highest tradithe situation and the likelihood of smoke inhalation and toxic tions of the Fire Department of the City of New York. His exposure. In a chaotic and hazardous environment, Lieutenant rapid assessment, expert clinical judgment and fearless reCotiaux assumed control of the medical response, rapidly as- sponse during a dangerous and emotionally charged incisessing the firefighter’s condition while coordinating the ac- dent were instrumental in saving the life of a firefighter. tions of Paramedics Michael Montemorano and Jessica Vega.

For his extraordinary professionalism, courage and dedicaTo reverse the suspected condition caused by exposure to tion to the safety of FDNY members operating under perilous toxic smoke, Lieutenant Cotiaux quickly requested the prepa- conditions, Lieutenant Brian W. Cotiaux is awarded the 2026 ration of a critical life-saving treatment. The team began ad- Captain Alison Russo North Star Medal.—KK ministering the lifesaving treatment and additional advanced life-saving interventions. The still-unconscious firefighter was removed from the immediate fireground hazards and transported through a staging area cluttered with apparatus, equipment and debris from the ongoing operation. He was transported to the hospital for continued care.

Despite the difficult conditions and urgency of Above: Fire conditions on June 22, 2025, CAD 4283 in the Bronx the moment, Lieutenant Right: Lt. Cotiaux on the scene of a fire Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Dr. Sheldon Jacobson Award Probationary Firefighter Michael T. Ortiz Station 8

March 25, 2025, 1250 hours, CAD 2386, Manhattan Appointed to the FDNY on July 25, 2016. At the time of the incident was an FDNY rescue paramedic and member of Haz-Tac. Promoted to probationary firefighter in March of 2026 and is currently in Class 1 of 2026, attending FDNY Probationary Firefighter School. Previously assigned to EMS Stations 19, 17, 14 and 8 (assigned at time of incident). Recipient of a Pre-Hospital Save, a Unit of the Month and a COVID-19 commendation. Resides in New York, New York.

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n New York City, first responders must be prepared for anything and ready to act at a moment’s notice. This September, the FDNY’s Rescue Paramedic Program will celebrate its 20th anniversary. Rescue medics are specially trained to deliver advanced life-saving care in some of the most dangerous and complex emergencies imaginable.

In a city with a vast, aging, and diverse infrastructure, there is no shortage of unusual and highly hazardous incidents requiring that expertise. Time and again rescue medics work side by side with Fire Operations in confined, dangerous and rapidly evolving conditions.

In March 2025, FDNY rescue paramedics and specialty resources were requested for a worker trapped beneath a dumbwaiter in Manhattan. The worker had been performing maintenance when the cable suddenly snapped, causing the dumbwaiter to fall three stories and pin the victim underneath.

The dumbwaiter was located inside a shaft, leaving no direct access to the victim. On scene, Rescue 1’s officer relayed that they had verbal contact with the patient and that he was alert and oriented, complaining of severe pain.

Members of Fire Operations breached the walls adjacent to the shaft and created a small access point so Rescue Medic Michael Ortiz could assess the victim. Due to the close quarters and members operating multiple extrication tools and breaching tools in a confined space, the situation was particularly hazardous.

Rescue Medic Ortiz and Lieutenant Eric Gruarin gained access to the victim and began providing advanced life-saving care while Fire Operations worked to lift the dumbwaiter and free the trapped worker.

Throughout the extended operation, the victim was continuously monitored assessed and treated under extraordinarily difficult conditions.

Once Fire Operations successfully removed the victim from the shaft, FDNY EMS members continued care and transported the patient to the hospital. Rescue Medic Ortiz’s skill, composure and ability to operate in an extremely dangerous environment were critical to the successful outcome of this incident. For his actions as an FDNY rescue paramedic, Probationary Firefighter Michael Ortiz is awarded the Dr. Sheldon Jacobson Medal.—CB

FDNY members created a breach in the walls on both sides of the dumbwaiter in order to access, treat and extricate the victim.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Commissioner Robert S. Tucker Fire Dispatcher Medal Fire Alarm Dispatcher Scott G. Hanratty

Fire Dispatch Operations - Brooklyn Communications Office September 20, 2024, 0340 Hours, Brooklyn Appointed to the FDNY on March 25, 2002. Previously assigned to the Brooklyn Central Office and Staten Island Central Office. Holds a bachelor's degree in business management from St. John’s University. Recipient of a Certificate of Merit (2002), an Excellence in Teamwork Award (2015) and the Chief Thomas P. O'Brien Award (2024). Resides on Staten Island. Father to Brendan and Genevieve.

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DNY fire alarm dispatchers (FADs) are specially trained to receive, manage and coordinate emergency calls. When a 9-1-1 call reporting a fire or other emergency is routed to an FAD, the dispatcher must make fast, consequential decisions, be a calm voice in chaos and ensure help is sent quickly while supporting members operating on the fireground. They are specially trained multi-taskers who work as a team, capable of simultaneously dispatching and relocating fire companies and handling notifications to EMS, outside agencies and relevant utilities. Operational excellence begins with the fire alarm dispatcher, who sets the chain of response in motion and can influence the outcome of an incident.

In the early hours of September 20, 2024, veteran Fire Alarm Dispatcher Scott Hanratty was operating as the Brooklyn alarm receipt dispatcher in the Brooklyn Central Communications Office when he answered a frantic call from a trapped occupant. A woman was calling from the second floor of her burning residence. Within 29 seconds of the receipt of that call, companies were responding.

FAD Hanratty determined that both the woman and her mother were unable to escape the raging fire, which had originated in the front rooms on the second floor. He immediately relayed this information to the radio dispatcher,

who informed Engine Company 255, Ladder Company 157 and additional responding companies. He then asked further questions to pinpoint her exact location, which was in the rear of the second floor, and relayed this to the units. When the victim started to go in and out of consciousness, FAD Hanratty stayed on the phone, trying to keep her calm and talking.

As members of Ladder 157 made their way up to the victim, they encountered high heat and zero visibility on the second floor due to the fire in the front rooms. The victim eventually lost consciousness, but FAD Hanratty remained on the phone until he heard Tower Ladder 157’s officer, Lieutenant Michael McPartland, transmitting a 10-45.

Both victims were removed by firefighters, turned over to EMS care and transported to an area hospital. Lt. McPartland was awarded the Emerald Society Pipes and Drums Medal in 2025 for his actions at this fire.

In the highest traditions of excellence in this Department, FAD Hanratty quickly processed the phone call, demonstrated composure in keeping the trapped occupant calm and relayed the pertinent information to responding companies, which helped save two lives. For his efforts, Fire Alarm Dispatcher Scott Hanratty is the first ever recipient of the Commissioner Robert S. Tucker Medal.—BG

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

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Special Recognition

Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire Memorial Medal Bureau of Fire Prevention Special Inspections Unit (SIU)

Chief Inspector Joseph Rogers Deputy Chief Inspector Jose R. Martinez Supervising Inspector Steven Beras March 28, 2025, 1615 Hours, Box 7606, Queens

From left to right: CI Joseph Rogers, DCI Jose Martinez and SI Steven Beras

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n March 28, 2025, at approximately 1615 hours, the FDNY Bureau of Fire Prevention’s Special Inspections Unit (SIU) received a request to respond from Division 14 regarding a possible illegal medical facility in operation at Queens Box 7606. Earlier, Engine Company 312 had responded to a medical call, where they found an unresponsive woman lying on a medical table. She was undergoing a medical procedure when complications arose, and she was transported to an area hospital in serious condition.

While en route to the location, due to the unusual nature of the incident, Chief Inspector Joe Rogers notified his contacts at NYPD Community Link, and Supervising Inspector Steven Beras and then-Supervising Inspector Jose Martinez (recently promoted to deputy chief inspector) contacted the Department of Buildings Watch Command.

Upon arrival, Supervising Inspectors Martinez and Beras met with members of NYPD 114 Precinct in the front of the building, and together they walked the premises. The front door was secured and nobody responded to knocking, but members observed someone peering out the window from the inside. They continued to the rear of the building, where they found an open door and, due to the unusual circumstances, proceeded to enter the building.

Inside, they found numerous medical devices, medical furniture and medications, suggesting the facility was operating illegally. This recognition led the SIU team to notify New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM), the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) and additional law enforcement units, as well as Engine Co. 312 and initial operating FDNY paramedics, all of whom responded to the scene.

During efforts to collect information, the investigative team discovered the name of the person who had illegally performed the procedure. The man had fled the scene prior to the arrival of the initial response units, and NYPD detec-

tives considered him a flight risk. U.S. Customs was contacted, and the man was detained and arrested at the airport when attempting to leave the country.

These FDNY special inspectors played a key role in accessing what turned out to be an illegal medical facility that was performing illegal cosmetic procedures on unsuspecting individuals—quickly making required notifications and collaborating with NYPD personnel and other agencies, all of which resulted in timely apprehension of the prime suspect about to leave the country. Evidence at the scene indicated that this makeshift clinic had been used before, so closing it hopefully saved others from harm. For their remarkable efforts, FDNY Fire Prevention’s Chief Inspector Joseph Rogers, Deputy Chief Inspector Jose Martinez and Supervising Inspector Steven Beras are being presented with the inaugural Triangle Shirtwaist Fire Memorial Medal.—KLE

On their return to the scene, FDNY first responders observed that the room had been tidied and a plush bear had been placed in the chair sometime after they left and before the NYPD and Fire Prevention inspectors arrived.

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

60

Lieutenant James Curran New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation Medal Engine Company 46 Captain Robert A. Wilson Firefighter Christopher J. Garcia Firefighter Andrew P. Hieb Firefighter Eric D. Reilly Firefighter Brian A. White February 12, 2025, 0600 hours, Box 33-3160, Bronx

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Members who operated on February 12, 2025, at Bronx Box 33-3160, from left to right: Captain Robert Wilson, FF Brian White (ECC), FF Andrew Hieb (nozzle), FF Eric Reilly (backup) and FF Christopher Garcia (control).

n February 12, 2025, Engine Company 46 arrived as ensuring both handlines were charged without delay. the third-due company to a rapidly escalating fire at Once inside, the nozzle team encountered a fully involved Bronx Box 3160, a two-story, flat-roof private dwell- interior staircase. They quickly extinguished the fire, allowing. On arrival, members observed heavy fire venting from ing for further advancement. Pushing past the stairwell, they the rear of the structure, extending through the narrow al- entered the first-floor kitchen, where heavy fire was blowing leyway on the exposure 4 side. The fire had already begun in from the alley through a failed window. This volume of fire to spread to the adjacent structure on exposure 4, another was aggressively knocked down both inside the kitchen and two-story, flat-roof dwelling that had been converted into a externally through the window opening.

Buddhist temple. It was later discovered that these buildWith the first floor largely controlled, the team returned ings were joined on the first floor by a short hallway. This to the stairwell and ascended the burned-out stairs to the exposure building showed significant involvement, with fire second floor. At the top, they were met with heavy fire in consuming the front porch and extending along the entire the hallway. Ladder 27 was simultaneously conducting priexposure 4 side. Thick, turbulent black smoke was pushing mary searches on the upper floor. Engine 46 advanced down from the upper-floor windows. the hallway toward the front rooms, where fire was ventMembers of Rescue Company 3 and Ladder Company 27 ing through burned-out doorways. The nozzle team extinpositioned a portable ladder to perform vent-enter-search guished visible fire in these rooms, improving conditions for (VES) operations on the top floor of the second fire building. search operations.

Engine 46 immediately stretched a 1¾-inch handline to the During these operations, Ladder 33 transmitted that they front steps of the adjacent building as fire intensified and be- had located two victims in the interconnected building and gan venting from the front door. During this critical moment, were in the process of removing them. Engine 46 continued an overhead power line, already compromised by fire condi- suppression efforts, including extinguishing fire in the cocktions, fell onto the front steps while still energized, creating loft, while searches continued throughout the second floor. an additional hazard.

Engine 46 maintained their position until their air cylinders Despite the danger, the Engine 46 nozzle team—Firefight- were depleted and they were relieved. ers Andrew Hieb and Eric Reilly—advanced toward the enAll initial responding companies were confronted with trance and began knocking down the heavy fire consuming extreme fire conditions in two occupied dwellings upon arthe porch and front doorway. Firefighter Christopher Garcia rival. Engine 46’s rapid and aggressive actions were critical supported the advance in knocking down heavy by flaking out the hosefire on both the exterior line, carefully avoiding and interior, including the contact with the live wire, stairwell, allowing ladder before proceeding up companies to conduct the steps. Simultaneousessential search operaly, Engine 46’s chauffeur, tions. Engine CompaFirefighter Brian White, ny 46 is awarded the Lt. coordinated with Engine James Curran/New York Company 75’s chauffeur Firefighters Burn Center to overcome a signifiFoundation Medal for cant water supply issue Engine Co. 46 battles the fire that their actions at this Bronx Photo by Command Tactical Unit drone caused by a parked ve- extended to the dwelling on exposure 4. third alarm.—RLL (Video still courtesy of Skyler Fire) hicle blocking a hydrant, Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

61

Firefighter Thomas R. Elsasser Memorial Medal Rescue Company 2 Captain Liam J. Flaherty Firefighter Peter J. Brady Firefighter Mark D. Checkett Firefighter Douglas J. Gaynor Firefighter George Jacimovic Firefighter Cameron A. Peek Members of Rescue Co. 2 who operated on March 28, 2025, at Brooklyn Box 22-2356 from left to right: Captain Liam Flaherty, FF Cameron Peek (RCC), FF George Jacimovic (roof), FF Mark Checkett (hook), Peter Brady (irons) and FF Douglas Gaynor (can)

March 28, 2025, 2103 hours, Box 22-2356, Brooklyn

O

bris and fire. By this time, Battalion n March 28, 2025, members 58 had directed Engine Company of Rescue Company 2 re257 to stretch a second line on the sponded to a reported fire first floor. Without hesitation, Capon the second floor of a two-story tain Flaherty called for Engine Comprivate dwelling. These buildings in pany 257 to deploy a water curtain Canarsie are notable for having two to protect the members from the enstories in front and three in the rear, croaching fire. where there is an entry to the cellar.

Recognizing the need for rapid exThe first-due units, Engine Comtrication, Captain Flaherty requested pany 310 and Ladder Company 174, the smaller and more mobile scissor arrived to heavy black smoke pushladder. FF Brady swiftly retrieved a 10ing from the second-floor main enfoot scissor ladder, while FF Peek setrance doorway. With the first floor cured a second scissor ladder to supinitially clear of smoke, the fire apport the operation. Captain Flaherty peared to be on the second floor. descended the ladder into the cellar, When Ladder 174’s inside team View of the collapsed stairs from the cellar. navigating extreme heat and near-zero and Engine 310’s nozzle team made visibility to locate and guide trapped a push on the second floor, they dismembers to the ladder. Firefightcovered that the fire was blowing up ers Checkett and Peek assisted from the interior stairs from below. As they above, pulling members to safety. FF advanced down, the entire staircase Jacimovic prepared the life-saving collapsed beneath them, falling into rope for a potential below-grade resthe cellar below. A total of six memcue, and other crews breached walls bers had been in various positions in around the stair enclosure to create the stairwell. Some now hung on to additional escape routes. Meanwhile, sections of the collapsed stairs, while FF Brady collaborated with Engine others fell approximately 10 feet into Company 255 to stretch a third hosethe midst of an advanced cellar fire. line through exposure 4 to the rear Moments before the collapse, yard and back to the cellar entrance, Rescue 2’s captain, Liam Flaherty, which ultimately extinguished the had reported into BC Eric Rasmusmain body of fire. sen (Battalion 58) and directed his Captain Flaherty and FF Gaynor, who had descended unit to split their efforts. Radio transmissions at the point indicated a fire in the cellar, so Captain Flaherty entered the from the second floor, conducted a thorough and complete first floor to locate the interior cellar stairs, while Firefighters search of the collapse area and informed the incident comDouglas Gaynor (R-2 can) and Peter Brady (R-2 irons) proceed- mander that all members were accounted for.

Rescue 2's effective and rapid response undoubtedly reed to the second floor to assist with operations. Firefighter Mark Checkett (R-2 hook) supported the efforts on the first sulted in less severe injuries to the members who were enfloor, and Firefighter George Jacimovic (R-2 roof) ascended to tangled in the burning debris of the collapsed stairwell. For the roof to prepare for life-saving rope operations if required. their skill, expertise and tremendous competence at this inciCaptain Flaherty discovered the collapse, finding members dent, Rescue 2 Company is awarded the Firefighter Thomas of Engine 310, Ladder 170 and Ladder 174 trapped amid de- R. Elsasser Memorial Medal.—KLE Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

62

World Trade Center Memorial Medal Ladder Company 56 Lieutenant Patrick T. Mataraza III Firefighter James V. Dadabo Jr. Firefighter Patrick F. Donohue Firefighter Kevin D. Fleming Firefighter Thomas Mastracchio, E-88 Firefighter John P. Tatti, E-88 June 22, 2025, 1924 hours, Box 55-3360, Bronx

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Members of Ladder 56 who operated on June 22, 2025, at Bronx Box 55-3360, from left to right: FF Kevin Fleming (roof), FF James Dadabo (LCC), Lt. Patrick Mataraza, FF Patrick Donohue (OV), FF John Tatti (Engine 88, irons) and FF Thomas Mastacchio (Engine 88, can).

n the evening of June 22, 2025, the members of Ladder 56 responded as the firefighter assist and search team (FAST) truck to a reported fire at Bronx Box 3360. Upon arrival, they encountered heavy fire in a two-anda-half-story, peaked-roof private dwelling, rapidly extending to exposures 2 and 4, with deteriorating interior conditions.

All three private dwellings were actively burning.

Lieutenant Patrick Mataraza recognized that overhead wires and limited access would restrict aerial placement, making portable ladders critical. He instructed Firefighter James Dadabo (chauffeur) to reposition the apparatus, assigned Firefighter Thomas Mastracchio (can) to monitor EFAS and directed Firefighters Kevin Fleming (roof), Patrick Donohue (outside vent) and John Tatti (irons) to aggressively ladder multiple buildings. Members also forced entry points and removed obstructions to help Engine Company 48 advance the first line into the fire building.

As fire conditions intensified, the stairs to the second floor of the fire building burned through. Lt Mataraza ordered FF Fleming to place a ladder onto the stairs to provide additional access and egress. Urgent transmissions, followed by a mayday, were received for a firefighter missing and low on air in the rear of exposure 2. FF Mastracchio identified the member on EFAS, and Ladder 56 was ordered to address the mayday. Lt. Mataraza and FF Tatti entered the exposure building and made their way to the attic. They found and identified the missing member and

assisted him out of the building to EMS resources in the street.

At nearly the same time, an urgent transmission was made for a downed member on the second floor of the original fire building. A disoriented firefighter, low on air and unable to self-rescue, was in the attic. The Ladder 56 outside team of FF Donohue and FF Fleming quickly deployed to the fire building with their Stokes basket and made their way up to assist the downed firefighter. Members of Rescue 3 were able to locate and begin removing the member to the stairs.

Under deteriorating conditions, the members of Ladder 56 and Rescue 3 coordinated the member’s rapid removal to the exterior. Ladder 56’s chauffeur, Firefighter James Dadabo, assisted in removing the member’s SCBA and provided emergency air from his own face piece. Through these coordinated efforts, the trapped firefighter was successfully moved to the street and to an ambulance for life-saving care due to smoke inhalation.

Fire conditions were still not improving when Lt. Mataraza heard urgent transmissions requesting additional portable ladders to the setback on exposure 2. After observing multiple members trapped at the attic window, the company immediately placed additional ladders to the attic, allowing members to evacuate the building.

After being relieved of FAST duties, Ladder 56 requested to continue operating. Members removed a tree obstructing aerial access and continued laddering buildings, removing upper-floor windows and improving ventilation and egress.

The actions of Ladder 56 reflect the highest traditions of teamwork in the FDNY. Through coordinated efforts, they successfully removed multiple firefighters from life-threatening conditions at this rapidly spreading fire. For their efforts, the members of Ladder Company 56 are awarded the World Trade Center Memorial June 22, 2025: Ladder Co. 56 operates at Bronx Box 55-3360. (Photos by Hon. Battalion Chief David Burns) Medal.—JR Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

63

SERVICE RATING A Lt. Nicholas T. Schneider, FLSTP FF John J. Berger II, L-122 Lt. Darin Finnigan, L-13 Capt. Anthony Harper, D-8 FF Daniel P. Gunther, L-138 FF Mark Hershey, R-2 FF Alphonso J. Espinoza, L-36 FF Brendan J. Byrne, L-55 FF Patrick J. Thornton, M-1 FF James M. Corey, L-6 FF Alexander D. Raynor, L-37 Lt. Scott W. Ettinger, E-155 FF Donald Campbell, R-5 FF Matthew S. Jezycki, L-172 FF Eric A. Falk, E-265 FF John P. Daly Jr., L-58 Lt. Joseph J. Murphy Jr., L-29 Lt. Scott R. Altman, Sq-41 Lt. Stephen J. Interdonati, L-41 FF Daniel P. Strauss, L-59 FF Alfred J. Ronaldson, R-3

Lt. Frank A. Criscuolo, L-41 FF Daniel M. Sullivan, L-116 FF John A. Palmer, L-144 FF Jason M. Perri, L-17 FF Salvatore D. Rignola, L-109 FF Michael N. Bonomo, L-33 FF Thomas J. Miele, L-133 FF Mathew S. Burbano, L-157 FF Peter J. Brady, R-2 FF Christopher M. Colleran, Sq-41 Capt. Leonard J. Romano, D-15 FF Donal F. Finnegan, L-42 FF Brian F. Mahoney, L-42 FF Timothy P. Donlon, L-175 Lt. Thomas Murphy, L-175 FF Patrick G. Corrigan, L-165 FF James M. Lafferty, E-76 FF Jonathan Veras, L-116 FF Matthew L. Gildersleeve, L-147 FF Patrick R. Orlando, L-147

SERVICE RATING B FF Hans Y. Valdiviezo, L-144 FF Joseph A. Zanca, L-138 Lt. Frederick J. Reischour Sr., L-109 FF Dominick F. Domingo, L-109 FF James P. Mitchell II, L-51 Capt. Arnold E. Galvez, L-35 FF Jon Leonor, L-35 FF William J. Rix, L-35 FF Luis E. Bocaletti, L-56 Capt. Liam J. Flaherty, R-2 FF Douglas J. Gaynor, R-2 FF George S. Samothrakis, L-150 FF Tyquay W. Bacon, E-301

Lt. Matthew W. O’Grady, E-304 FF Tyler Hickey, M-Batt.

FF Kenneth R. Lockard, L-41 FF Christopher A. Harney, L-118 FF Joseph M. Gliamas, L-175 Capt. Russell Giordano, L-168 FF Robert J. Leavy, L-31 FF Jesse L. Phillips, L-123 FF Ismail M. Williams, L-123 FF Vir B. Lherisson, L-106 FF Vincent A. LaRosa, L-36 FF Sean M. Thompson, L-169

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

64

UNIT CITATIONS Engine Company 271 Jan. 10, 2025, Box 4156

Marine Company 4 May 17, 2025, Box 0492

Engine Company 266 Sept. 14, 2025, Box 1319

Ladder Company 140 Jan. 10, 2025, Box 8974

Marine Company 6 May 17, 2025, Box 0492

Ladder Company 121 Sept. 14, 2025, Box 1319

Ladder Company 149 Jan. 15, 2025, Box 2887

Marine Company 9 May 17, 2025, Box 0492

Ladder Company 120 Oct. 10, 2025, Box 1905

Engine Company 242 Jan. 15, 2025, Box 2887

Rescue Company 2 May 17, 2025, Box 0492

Rescue Company 2 Oct. 10, 2025, Box 1905

Engine Company 273 Jan. 24, 2025, Box 9485

Marine Company 4 May 20, 2025, Box 6293

Squad Company 252 Oct. 10, 2025, Box 1905

Ladder Company 129 Feb. 4, 2025, Box 4483

Squad Company 252 May 26, 2025, Box 7097

Engine Company 73 Nov. 13, 2025, Box 2377

Ladder Company 30 Feb. 5, 2025, Box 1588

Marine Company 4 June 7, 2025, Box 8855

Ladder Company 42 Nov. 13, 2025, Box 2377

Engine Company 46 Feb. 12, 2025, Box 3160

Ladder Company 56 June 22, 2025, Box 3360

Engine Company 58 Nov. 14, 2025, Box 1457

Ladder Company 33 Feb. 12, 2025, Box 3160

Ladder Company 173 June 22, 2025, Box 1633

Engine Company 96 Dec. 3, 2025, Box 2699

Engine Company 8 March 25, 2025, Box 0891

Engine Company 92 June 27, 2025, Box 2760

Engine Company 76 Dec. 9, 2025, Box 1312

Ladder Company 16 March 25, 2025, Box 0891

Engine Company 5 July 1, 2025, Box 0460

Ladder Company 22 Dec. 9, 2025, Box 1312

Rescue Company 1 March 25, 2025, Box 0891

Engine Company 8 July 28, 2025, Box 0875

Engine Company 92 Dec. 15, 2025, Box 2795

Rescue Company 2 March 28, 2025, Box 2356

Engine Company 323 Aug. 9, 2025, Box 2386

Engine Company 250 Dec. 17, 2025, Box 3379

Marine Company 1 Apr. 10, 2025, Box 0352

Marine Company 6 Aug. 13, 2025, Box 7372

Ladder Company 159 Apr. 16, 2025, Box 4184

Engine Company 157 Sept. 4, 2025, Box 0547

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

65

CFR-D PRE-HOSPITAL SAVE COMMENDATIONS January 2025

Engine Co. 201, April 1

July 2025

November 2025

Engine Co. 28, January 9

Engine Co. 216, April 7

Engine Co. 58, July 27

Engine Co. 64, November 3

Engine Co. 71, January 3

Engine Co. 218, April 27

Engine Co. 59, July 29

Engine Co. 79, November 8

Engine Co. 76, January 14

Engine Co. 227, April 5

Engine Co. 202, July 5

Engine Co. 90, November 12

Engine Co. 229, January 19

Engine Co. 231, April 6

Engine Co. 218, July 13

Engine Co. 96, November 3

Engine Co. 297, January 15

Engine Co. 243, April 19

Engine Co. 246, July 13

Engine Co. 153, November 4

Engine Co. 251, April 3

Engine Co. 253, July 3

Engine Co. 159, November 2

February 2025

Engine Co. 273, April 18

Engine Co. 268, July 24

Engine Co. 162, November 12

Engine Co. 62, February 7

Engine Co. 274, April 7

Engine Co. 289, July 28

Engine Co. 167, November 1

Engine Co. 81, February 10, 23

Engine Co. 275, April 24

Engine Co. 298, July 5

Engine Co. 205, November 25

Engine Co. 158, February 13

Engine Co. 292, April 12

Engine Co. 303, July 26

Engine Co. 268, November 4

Engine Co. 241, February 23

Engine Co. 310, April 10

Engine Co. 308, July 17

Engine Co. 271, November 28

Engine Co. 251, February 19

Engine Co. 323, April 3

Squad Co. 1, July 30

Engine Co. 283, November 30

Engine Co. 262, February 18

May 2025

August 2025

Engine Co. 302, November 16

Engine Co. 273, February 14

Engine Co. 28, May 5

Engine Co. 3, August 6, 27

Engine Co. 304, November 10

Engine Co. 291, February 28

Engine Co. 75, May 8

Engine Co. 9, August 24

Engine Co. 310, November 1

Engine Co. 293, February 8

Engine Co. 155, May 28

Engine Co. 46, August 6

Engine Co. 312, November 2

Engine Co. 298, February 25

Engine Co. 158, May 12

Engine Co. 52, August 6

Engine Co. 315, November 11

Engine Co. 255, February 28

Engine Co. 301, November 29

Engine Co. 217, May 21

Engine Co. 58, August 9, 12

Engine Co. 324, November 24

March 2025

Engine Co. 229, May 18

Engine Co. 80, August 23

Squad Co. 61, November 30

Engine Co. 1, March 8

Engine Co. 326, May 7

Engine Co. 158, August 11

Engine Co. 50, March 21

Engine Co. 332, May 15

Engine Co. 161, August 30

December 2025

Engine Co. 58, March 4, 20

Engine Co. 220, August 17

Engine Co. 28, December 28

Engine Co. 72, March 18

June 2025

Engine Co. 245, August 24

Engine Co. 38, December 26

Engine Co. 80, March 18

Engine Co. 15, June 26

Engine Co. 251, August 13

Engine Co. 39, December 31

Engine Co. 83, March 21

Engine Co. 34, June 28

Engine Co. 287, August 24

Engine Co. 54, December 22

Engine Co. 214, March 9

Engine Co. 40, June 22

Engine Co. 295, August 8

Engine Co. 59, December 31

Engine Co. 222, March 22

Engine Co. 42, June 16

Engine Co. 309, August 16

Engine Co. 60, December 5

Engine Co. 233, March 17

Engine Co. 155, June 11

Engine Co. 237, March 16

Engine Co. 214, June 4

September 2025

Engine Co. 69, December 28

Engine Co. 242, March 20

Engine Co. 218, June 5

Engine Co. 34, September 6

Engine Co. 75, December 8

Engine Co. 243, March 20

Engine Co. 219, June 29

Engine Co. 163, September 21

Engine Co. 151, December 17

Engine Co. 248, March 19, 22

Engine Co. 225, June 30

Engine Co. 167, September 3

Engine Co. 164, December 30

Engine Co. 251, March 2, 23

Engine Co. 227, June 15

Engine Co. 268, September 5

Engine Co. 217, December 9, 9, 31

Engine Co. 262, March 1

Engine Co. 231, June 26

Engine Co. 284, September 2

Engine Co. 225, December 18

Engine Co. 274, March 9

Engine Co. 237, June 24

Engine Co. 285, September 21

Engine Co. 236, December 14

Engine Co. 291, March 20

Engine Co. 243, June 22

Engine Co. 332, September 22

Engine Co. 243, December 17, 29

Engine Co. 293, March 5

Engine Co. 255, June 26

Marine Co. 9, September 12

Engine Co. 253, December 31

Engine Co. 298, March 19

Engine Co. 260, June 13

Engine Co. 304, March 21

Engine Co. 275, June 26

October 2025

Engine Co. 273, December 14

Engine Co. 305, March 1

Engine Co. 277, June 4

Engine Co. 52, October 11

Engine Co. 275, December 9

Engine Co. 309, March 23

Engine Co. 289, June 14

Engine Co. 55, October 14

Engine Co. 294, December 15

Engine Co. 321, March 16

Engine Co. 292, June 18

Engine Co. 95, October 2

Engine Co. 301, December 13

Engine Co. 325, March 3

Engine Co. 293, June 21

Engine Co. 230, October 2

Engine Co. 306, December 29

Engine Co. 297, June 29

Engine Co. 234, October 31

Engine Co. 330, December 17

April 2025

Engine Co. 301, June 19

Engine Co. 308, October 8

Squad Co. 1, December 30

Engine Co. 37, April 16

Engine Co. 307, June 28

Engine Co. 324, October 13

Engine Co. 65, April 28

Engine Co. 313, June 20

Squad Co. 41, October 12

Engine Co. 92, April 10

Engine Co. 332, June 27

Engine Co. 66, December 2

Engine Co. 268, December 26

Engine Co. 156, April 12 Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

66

BUREAU OF FIRE INVESTIGATION—BFI SERVICE RATING A

SERVICE RATING B

January 28, 2025, FM Derek Harwood, CWN January 28, 2025, FM Bryan D. Fealy, CWN June 4, 2025, FM Billy Chen, CWS August 24, 2025, FM Joshua S. Riskin, CWN September 26, 2025, FM Timothy J. Moylan, CWN November 22, 2025, FM Charles A. Nieves, CWN

January 20, 2025, FM Billy Chen, CWS January 26, 2025, FM Eric M. Schreck, CWS March 20, 2025, FM Gary J. Heegan, SIU March 20, 2025, FM Vladislav Pastarchuk, CWN March 24, 2025, FM Joseph P. Conforti, CWS July 29, 2025, FM Janice J. Beck, CWS August 20, 2025, FM David Leibowitz, SIU August 20, 2025, FM Jesse S. Collado, CWS September 18, 2025, FM Joseph Vargas, CWN December 20, 2025, FM Timothy J. Moylan, CWN

UNIT CITATIONS Bronx Serial Arsonist January 1, 2025, Box 1859

Brooklyn Food Cart Rival Arson July 17, 2025, Box 0547

Brooklyn Serial Arsonist January 18, 2025, Box 1040

Brooklyn Arson July 29, 2025, Box 4120

Brooklyn Serial Arsonist January 29, 2025, Box 0874

Bronx Threat to FDNY Members September 1, 2025, Box 3514

Bronx Arson March 2, 2025, Box 1349

Manhattan Domestic Violence Arson September 26, 2025, Box 1568

Queens Domestic Violence Arson October 8, 2025, Box 8855 Brooklyn Domestic Violence Arson October 30, 2025, Box 1859 Manhattan Arson November 22, 2025, Box 1348

EXCELLENCE IN CLINICAL CARE AWARD (ECCA) Paramedic Vitaly Usherenko EMT Quinn Mattia EMT Neil Devin* Paramedic Lucey Snyder Paramedic Michael Kavanagh Jr. Paramedic Theresa Murphy Paramedic Ki Hyun Kim Paramedic Daniel Mathieu Paramedic Francisco Checo EMT Jonathan Zuckerman Paramedic Leslie Delahoz Paramedic Amanda Czaja EMT Jayson Romano EMT Matthew Moscato Lieutenant David Rivera Paramedic David Jean-Baptiste Paramedic Jonathan Silvera Paramedic Nyla Page Walthrus

Paramedic Veronica Cruz EMT Lido Aviles Lieutenant Eric Ozechowski Captain Joseph Spinelli* Lieutenant Chante McDonald EMT Lido Aviles Jr. Fire Lieutenant Stephen McGowan Paramedic Michael Demiro Paramedic Daniel Lynch EMT Celine Sierra EMT Josue Hernandez-Torres EMT Rachel Napoletano EMT Peter Campanelli EMT Andrew Preus Lieutenant Christopher Pierce Paramedic Kira Ray Paramedic James O'Neill EMT Crystal Scognamiglio

EMT Eric Taratko EMT Elias Guardado EMT Stephen Peters Paramedic Laurenann Valdez Paramedic Martin Zienkowicz Paramedic Casey Stiller EMTJorge Pizarro Paramedic Abidemi Olatunbosun Paramedic Scott Michels EMT Antony Tang Paramedic Dukens Jean Baptiste Paramedic Richard Harvey EMT Stephen Nurnberger EMT Hunter Kroczynski EMT Matthew McGill

Fire Department, City of New York • Medal Day 2026

67

*Received twice this year

2025 PRE-HOSPITAL SAVE AWARDS Number in parentheses indicates number of saves.

PAR Byron Abad (1)

EMT Lileth Bonsenor (2)

EMT Jerry Castano (1)

EMT Gregory Curiel (3)

EMT Daniel Abbate (1)

EMT Jolene Bonura (1)

PAR Ruben Castillo (2)

ELT Kevin Darnowski (1)

PAR Dominick Abbriano (1)

EMT Juliette Bosco (1)

PAR Lee Castro (1)

ELT Calin David (2)

EMT Armando Abrahante (1)

EMT Jazmin Bourdier (2)

PAR Michael Cavanagh (1)

EMT Robert Davolio (1)

PAR Alex Acevedo (2)

EMT Karl Bowen-Allen (1)

ELT Jose Cerda Matos (1)

ELT Gonzalo De Jesus (1)

EMT Israel Acosta III (1)

EMT Joseph Bradbury (1)

PAR Christopher Chalmers (1)

EMT Sanna De La Paz (2)

ELT Brandon Adams (1)

EMT Evan Branch (2)

PAR David Chambers (1)

EMT Johnrod Decano (1)

EMT Matthew Adams (1)

ELT Joel Brathwaite (4)

ELT Eric Chanin (2)

EMT Sergio Decastro (1)

EMT Ahmed Adekoya (1)

PAR Victor Brathwaite (1)

ELT Charles Chapman (2)

ELT Jesus Deinnocentiis (3)

PAR Julianne Agosta (2)

PAR Gonzalo Bravo (1)

PAR Jerry Chatelain (2)

PAR Ryan Dejesus (1)

ELT Ashley Alejo (1)

EMT Jaden Breyette (1)

EMT Xu Chen (1)

EMT Christian Delisio (1)

EMT Christopher Alfonso (2)

ELT Randy Brokman (1)

ELT Zhen Huan Chen (4)

ELT Christopher Demott (1)

EMT Brandon Alvarado (1)

ELT Arthur Bronshteyn (1)

ELT Timur Chernichkin (1)

EMT Irving Deshields (1)

EMT Emmanuel Alvarez-Lozada (1)

ELT Bruce Brown (2)

PAR Oleksandr Chernov (1)

EMT Neil Devin (1)

ELT Vanessa Alveari (1)

EMT Rebecca Browne (3)

EMT Nicholas Cherpelis (1)

EMT Anthony Devita Lii (1)

ELT Christopher Ang (1)

PAR Kelvin Bruno (2)

EMT Premil Chery (1)

PAR James Diaz (1)

EMT Angel Angel-Pareja (1)

PAR Lauren Bryan (1)

PAR Anthoniel Chin (1)

EMT Dillon Digenova (1)

ELT Timothy Anson (1)

PAR Gabriel Buckley (1)

ELT Christopher Chin (1)

EMT Giovanni Dilluvio (1)

PAR Alexis Aponte (1)

EMT Derron Bucknor (1)

PAR Sung Choi (1)

EMT Tyler Dilorenzo (1)

EMT Andrew Aponte (3)

PAR Teodulo Buhat (1)

EMT John Cialino (1)

PAR Trinh Dinh (4)

EMT William Arent Jr. (1)

EMT Andres Buitrago (1)

EMT Frank Ciccone (1)

ELT Joseph Dinovelli-Lang (1)

EMT Christopher Armida (1)

ECP Daniel Burgos (2)

EMT Samer Ciftcikal (1)

EMT Ivan Dobosh (1)

EMT Nicole Arocho (1)

EMT Kedlyn Burgos (1)

PAR Peter Cioffi (1)

ELT Thomas Donofrio (5)

EMT Antonio Arroyo (1)

EMT Alexa Burke (1)

ELT Jesus Ciriaco (1)

PAR Frederick Dorner (1)

EMT Giovanni Arsenault (1)

ELT Tyisha Burwell (1)

EMT Jillian Clementi (1)

ELT Diane Dos Santos (2)

EMT Mohammad Assad (1)

EMT John Butcher (1)

EMT Michael Coakley (2)

PAR Naytasha Doyle (3)

EMT Raheem Austin (1)

EMT Brendan Butler (1)

EMT William Coco (1)

EMT Quentin Dumerve (1)

PAR Carlos Avellaneda (2)

PAR Alex Byrd (2)

EMT Joseph Coffey Jr. (1)

ELT Robert Dupree (2)

ELT Gilberto Aviles (2)

ELT Joseph Caba (1)

EMT Luke Cohen (1)

EMT Dustin Dwyer (1)

EMT Lido Aviles (1)

EMT John Cabezas (1)

EMT Angel Collazo (1)

PAR Wayne Edgar (1)

EMT Maria Azzinaro (1)

PAR David Cadogan (3)

PAR Johanny Colon (2)

EMT Tavian Edmonds (1)

PAR Nicole Baker (1)

ELT Giovanna Caldarella (1)

EMT Joseph Composto (1)

EMT Anthony Edwards (1)

PAR Alexander Bases (2)

EMT Michael Calisto (1)

EMT Steven Conboy (1)

EMT Sean Egbert (1)

ELT Ohnesto Batalla (5)

EMT Peter Callan (1)

EMT Jasmyn Conde (1)

EMT Brent Ehlberg (2)

EMT Clarence Battle (1)

PAR Linda Callery (1)

EMT Robert Condon (1)

EMT Luca Eisen (1)

EMT Antonio Belizaire (1)

EMT James Cameron (2)

EMT Kevin Cook (1)

ELT Alicia Elkadi (2)

PAR James Belly (1)

EMT Donato Cangro (1)

EMT Ryan Cordeiro (2)

PAR John Emington (1)

ELT Jose Benitez (1)

EMT Terence Canham (1)

ELT Zuleyka Cordero Lozada (1)

PAR John Engle (1)

PAR Yehezkel Ben Yaakov (2)

EMT Anthony Canzoneri (1)

PAR Ronald Cordova (2)

ELT Marvy Erazo (1)

EMT Jose Benitez Cruz (1)

EMT Michael Caponi (1)

ELT Miguel Cornier Jr. (1)

EMT Gabriel Espinal (2)

EMT Jesse Bernheimer (1)

EMT Nicholas Caracciolo (2)

PAR Amanda Cornwall (1)

ELT Liana Espinal (1)

EMT Gina Bernier (1)

PAR Alfred Carcani (1)

PAR Jenna Cosa (1)

EMT Daniel Essig (2)

PAR Jennifer Berrio (1)

EMT Armando Cardenio Jr. (1)

EMT Nicholas Covino (1)

EMT Dylan Evans (1)

EMT Naya Best-Gentle (1)

EMT Gregory Carlin (1)

EMT Chad Cox (2)

EMT Emma Falco (1)

EMT Aubert Bethencourt Lii (1)

PAR James Carlson (1)

EMT Domenic Cracco (1)

PAR Ian Farrington (1)

ELT Peter Bilardello (3)

PAR John Carozza Li (1)

EMT Canaan Crayton (1)

EMT Madelyn Fernandez (1)

PAR Jonathan Billian (2)

PAR Efrain Carrasquillo (1)

PAR Spencer Crist (3)

EMT Anthony Ferrara (1)

EMT Bjorn Bjornsson (1)

EMT Theresa Carroll (2)

ELT Jessica Cruz (1)

ELT Thomas Ferrara (1)

EMT Amber Black (2)

PAR Michael Casanova (2)

ELT Jose Cruz (3)

ELT Romario Ferreira (2)

EMT Dayza Blades (1)

PAR Jeremy Caso (2)

EMT Raymond Cubas (1)

EMT Peter Ferro (1)

EMT Mark Blair (3)

ELT Diana Cassa (3)

PAR Kathy Cubias (1)

EMT Michael Fiala (2)

EMT Daniel Bonilla (1)

EMT John Cassidy (1)

PAR Carlos Cuellar (1)

ELT Alvin Figueroa (2)

PAR Michael Bonilla (1)

EMT Ottavio Castaldi (1)

ELT Michael Cumberbatch (1)

ELT Jerry Figueroa (1)

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2025 PRE-HOSPITAL SAVE AWARDS ELT Stanislav Flaksman (1)

ELT Eric Gruarin (1)

ELT Joel Joseph (1)

EMT Jon Lopez (1)

PAR Elizabeth Flores (1)

EMT Kamil Grzymala (1)

PAR Francis Jost (1)

EMT Jonas Louis-Charles (1)

PAR Bruce Fonseca (2)

PAR Daniel Guillen (1)

PAR Christopher Juanilla (1)

PAR Ludwig Loy (2)

PAR Richard Forrester (1)

ELT Magdalena Guirand (2)

PAR Eduardo Juarez Garcia (1)

EMT Robert Lubinski (1)

ELT Michael Fox (5)

EMT Andrea Gunawan (1)

EMT Edwin Juarez Morales (1)

EMT Diego Lucero (1)

PAR Michael Frail (3)

EMT Laxmi Gurung (2)

PAR Winsley Julien (1)

PAR Winslow Luna (1)

EMT Anthony Francisci (1)

PAR Jose Guzman (1)

ELT Ravivarman Kailayanathan (1)

EMT Aaron Ly (1)

ELT Michael Fregonese (3)

EMT Reinaldo Guzman (1)

PAR Aleksandr Kaplan (3)

PAR Paul Lynch (2)

EMT George Frimpong (3)

PAR Christopher Hagemann (1)

EMT Ryan Karp (1)

EMT Christian Lyons (1)

ELT Japhet Gaengan (1)

EMT Geron Hamilton (1)

PAR Cubias Kathy (1)

PAR Nelson Madrigal (1)

EMT Christopher Gagliardo (1)

PAR Elijah Hamlet (1)

PAR Jessica Keeley (1)

PAR Nicholas Magro (1)

EMT Tyrrell Gainey (1)

EMT Christian Hansen (1)

EMT Lamar Kelly (1)

EMT Eugenio Maiello (2)

EMT Oscar Galo Florez (1)

ELT Luke Hardcastle (1)

EMT Lecept Kennedy Jr. (1)

ELT Valeri Makarets (1)

PAR Bryan Gambino (1)

EMT James Hardy (1)

EMT Matthew Kenney (2)

EMT Matthew Mancini (1)

EMT Gilberto Garcia (1)

PAR Claire Harewood (2)

EMT Jessica Kenny (1)

PAR Jessica Mancino (1)

EMT Henry Garcia (1)

ELT Mark Harricharan (1)

PAR Travis Kessel (1)

EMT John Mangan (3)

ELT Jessy Garcia (1)

EMT James Hartmann (1)

EMT Joseph Kessler (1)

EMT Anthony Mangi (1)

PAR Kahmil Garcia (1)

EMT Omar Harvey (1)

PAR Steven Khan (1)

PAR Ralph Mangrella (2)

PAR Sonia Garcia (1)

PAR Richard Harvey (1)

ELT David Kher (3)

PAR Christina Manno (1)

PAR Jacob Garcia-Rodriguez (2)

PAR Glenroy Haywood (1)

EMT Jawad Kiani (1)

PAR Anthony Marascia (1)

EMT Ian Garvin (1)

PAR Christian Hehn (1)

EMT Michael Kiesel (2)

ELT Robertson Marc (1)

ELT Juan Gavilanes (1)

EMT Mark Henderson (1)

ELT Lesley Kim (1)

EMT Juan Marcial (1)

ELT Bruce Geiser (1)

EMT Desiree Hendrickson (1)

PAR Jannell King (5)

EMT Louis Marin (1)

EMT Sabrina Gentile (2)

PAR Luis Hermita (2)

ELT Justin Kinney (1)

ELT John Marino (1)

PAR Shewain George (1)

ELT John Hernandez (1)

EMT Justin Kinsky (1)

PAR Kyle Marriello (3)

EMT Robert Giacoia (1)

PAR Oscar Hernandez (1)

PAR Andrey Kirichenko (1)

PAR Dennis Marsh (1)

EMT Justin Gidicipetro (1)

PAR Raymundo Hernandez (1)

PAR Sergiy Kiseliuk (2)

PAR Marquand Martin (2)

EMT Anthony Gines (2)

EMT Samuel Hernandez (1)

PAR Robert Koemm (5)

EMT Tristan Martin Jr. (1)

PAR Mark Gioffre (1)

PAR Henry Hernandez Jr. (1)

EMT Mikael Koho (1)

EMT Daniel Martinez (2)

EMT John Glidden IV (1)

EMT Josue Hernandez-Torres (1)

ELT Christian Komondorea (1)

EMT Jorge Martinez (2)

EMT Jack Goldberg (1)

EMT Javier Herrera (1)

PAR Darren Kondas (1)

ELT Marisel Martinez (2)

EMT Brian Golding (1)

PAR Doris Herrera-Lozado (1)

PAR Edin Kreso (3)

PAR Noe Martinez Garcia (2)

PAR Shirah Goldstock (1)

PAR Reevaaj Hoamcharran (1)

PAR Marc Krokowski (3)

EMT Peter Massimillo (1)

ELT Alexander Gomez (4)

EMT Connor Hoban (1)

ELT David Kruysman (1)

ELT Jordan Matallana (2)

EMT Edwin Gomez (1)

PAR Shanell Hollis (1)

ELT Josephine Kwok (2)

PAR Daniel Mathieu (1)

ELT Yonh Gomez (2)

PAR Michael Hood (2)

PAR Marco Lacertosa (2)

PAR Eric Matonis (2)

ELT Andre Gonzalez (1)

EMT Michael Hospedales (1)

EMT Craig Ladka (1)

EMT Quinn Mattia (1)

EMT Jeffrey Gonzalez (1)

EMT Keston Huggins (1)

EMT Roan Lanigan (1)

PAR Peter Matura (1)

PAR Joseph Gonzalez (2)

ELT Mohammad Hussain (2)

EMT Ricky Laureano (1)

PAR Leswin Matute (2)

PAR Julisa Gonzalez (1)

ELT Derek Hutchinson (1)

PAR Juan Lebron (1)

EMT Richard McCarthy Jr. (1)

PAR Justin Gonzalez (1)

EMT Heather Hutchinson (1)

EMT Adrian Leddy (1)

PAR Dylan McCoy (1)

EMT Kenneth Gonzalez (1)

PAR Alix Hyacinthe (2)

PAR Hyo Gap Lee (1)

PAR Sophia McDonnell (1)

EMT Nicholas Gonzalez (1)

EMT John Irizarry (1)

ELT Christopher Leon (1)

PAR Erin McDonough (1)

EMT Idris Gooden (1)

EMT Mikhail Iskhakov (1)

PAR Jessica Leon (3)

EMT Gregory McEnroe (1)

ELT Joshua Goset (2)

PAR Sean Ismaili (1)

PAR Jamelia Lewis (1)

ELT James McGee (1)

EMT Giovanni Gotay (1)

ELT Matt Jachyra (1)

EMT Zexun Li (2)

PAR Kristin McGeown (1)

EMT Patryk Granda (1)

EMT Miracle Jackson (1)

EMT Timothy Liang (1)

EMT Matthew McGoldrick (1)

EMT Maurice Green (1)

PAR Christopher Jacobs (2)

EMT Michael Light (1)

EMT Michael McGovern (1)

EMT Jermaine Gregg (1)

PAR James O'Sullivan (1)

EMT Joseph Liguori Jr. (1)

EMT Nicholas McGraw (1)

PAR Michael Gregor (1)

ELT Samuel Jaroslawicz (2)

ELT Justin Lim (2)

PAR Daja McKeithen (4)

PAR Meaghan Grey (1)

PAR Keyanna Jean Louis (2)

PAR Anthony Loaiza (5)

EMT Patrick McKeown (1)

EMT Gregory Griesmer (2)

ELT Joshua Jimenez (1)

ELT Kyle Logiudice (1)

EMT Matthew McKinnon (1)

EMT Terrell Griffin (1)

PAR Casey Johnson (1)

EMT John Longo (1)

ELT Tyrone McLune (2)

PAR Robert Grizzaffi (2)

EMT Sharnise Johnson (1)

EMT Hector Lopez (2)

EMT Andrew McMurray (1)

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2025 PRE-HOSPITAL SAVE AWARDS EMT Alexis Medina (1)

EMT Brian O'Neill (1)

ELT John Pneuman (2)

ELT Xavier Rush (2)

EMT Jonathan Menard (1)

PAR Hakeem Orelaja (1)

PAR Diego Poblete Espinoz (1)

ELT Dean Russell (2)

PAR Stephanie Mendez (1)

ELT Christopher Orlik (1)

ELT James Porras (4)

EMT Anthony Russo (1)

EMT Mikayla Metviner (1)

EMT Michael Ormiston (1)

ELT Michael Potasso (1)

ELT Corey Ruth (2)

ELT Leon Michel (2)

ELT Daniel Ornstein (2)

EMT Devon Potter (1)

EMT Brendan Ryan (1)

EMT Daniel Milazzo (1)

PAR Andrew O'Rourke (2)

PAR Alessandra Prestigiacomo (1)

PAR Felix Saavedra (2)

PAR Cilla Miller Richards (1)

EMT Bruny Ortega-Garcia (1)

EMT Andrew Preus (1)

EMT Pamela Saenz (2)

EMT Jakob Millman (1)

ELT Ciara Ortiz (1)

EMT Angelique Price (1)

PAR Djhonny Saint Louis (2)

PAR Steven Moise Jr. (1)

ELT Niall O'Shaughnessy (2)

ELT Annwon Quick (1)

PAR Jonathan Sala (1)

EMT Monira Monir (2)

ELT Yari Osorio (1)

PAR Kelly Quirke (1)

PAR Paul Saladis III (2)

EMT Christian Monteavaro (1)

PAR Leonardo Ospino (1)

ELT Eddie Radovic (2)

EMT Jonathan Saldivar (2)

PAR Michael Montemorano Sr. (2)

ELT James O'Sullivan (1)

EMT Tanvir Rafid (1)

PAR Abraham Salih (1)

EMT Aaron Montes (2)

PAR James O'Sullivan (1)

PAR Rudaina Ramos (2)

ELT Salim Salim (1)

EMT Ryan Moore (1)

ELT Ricardo Otero (1)

EMT Thomas Ramos (1)

PAR Anthony Sanchez (1)

PAR Joseph Mora (1)

PAR Luis Pacheco (1)

ELT Veronica Ramos (1)

PAR Ricardo Sanchez (1)

EMT Julian Morales (2)

PAR Orlando Palma (2)

EMT Gerardo Ramos Jr. (1)

EMT Scarlet Sanchez (1)

EMT Jerry Moran (1)

PAR Victor Pantoja (1)

PAR Kira Ray (1)

EMT Desiree Sanders (1)

PAR Jonathan Morel (1)

PAR Lawrence Paredes (1)

ELT Shlomo Raymon (1)

EMT Brandon Santel (1)

EMT Joseph Morel (2)

PAR Catherine Park (3)

ELT William Razenson (2)

ELT Nicolas Santini (2)

PAR Joshua Morel (1)

EMT Hazel Parkins (1)

ELT Briana Reardon (1)

EMT Justin Sarapaivanit (1)

PAR Catalina Moreno (1)

ELT Gregory Partch Jr. (3)

PAR Vincent Rebolledo (1)

EMT John Scanlon (1)

ELT Melanie Moreno (1)

EMT Matthew Pascale (1)

PAR Andrew Redwood (1)

EMT Robert Schmuck (1)

EMT Brian Moroni (1)

PAR Kayla Pasquarello (2)

EMT Christian Reed (1)

EMT Tabitha Schnepf (1)

ELT Brian Morrissey (2)

EMT Anthony Pasquarosa (1)

EMT Alexander Rende (1)

PAR Laura Schor (1)

ELT Emily Moy (1)

PAR Jessica Pauldon (1)

EMT Jaida Reyes (1)

EMT Hunter Schroeck (1)

EMT Kevin Muca (1)

EMT Maksym Pavlik (2)

EMT Eugene Reynolds (1)

EMT Crystal Scognamiglio (1)

EMT Liliana Munoz (1)

PAR Ronald Peifer Li (1)

EMT Christopher Reynoso (1)

EMT Matthew Seecharan (3)

EMT Nicholas Murphy (2)

ELT Amaury Pena (2)

ELT Rocco Riccardi (3)

PAR Hakim Sehad (3)

EMT Sean Murphy (1)

EMT Kelvin Pena (1)

ELT Shaun Riley (1)

EMT Jeffrey Sessoms (2)

PAR Adries Mustafa (3)

EMT Mariah Pena (1)

Paramedic Erin Rinaldo (1)

ELT Chunghing Sham (1)

ELT Diana Muyudumbay (1)

EMT Anthony Peralta (1)

PAR Rafael Rivera (1)

ELT Stephen Sham (1)

ELT Steven Myhand (1)

PAR Gisneiry Peralta (1)

PAR Richard Rivera (1)

PAR Jason Shander (4)

PAR Samerah Nagi (1)

PAR Alexandre Pereira (1)

ELT Ronald Rizzo (1)

PAR Manu Sharma (2)

EMT Mait Marten Nanits (1)

EMT Gilbert Perez (1)

EMT Shameeka Rochford (1)

EMT Jason Sharp (1)

PAR Igor Negelev (2)

ELT Jonathan Perez (1)

EMT Antonio Rodriguez (1)

ELT Kimberly Sharpe (1)

PAR Ciana Negron (2)

EMT Nadia Perez (1)

ELT Brandon Rodriguez (1)

ELT Allison Shaughnessy (1)

EMT William Neice (1)

PAR Nicole Perez (1)

PAR Carlos Rodriguez (1)

EMT James Shields (1)

PAR Christina Newman (1)

PAR Rachel Perez (1)

EMT Randy Rodriguez (2)

PAR Hahyung Shim (2)

EMT John Nicosia (1)

ELT Ashley Pernice (2)

EMT West Rodriguez Jr. (1)

PAR Daniel Sieger (3)

ELT Vladimir Nikulin (1)

PAR Chaz Perry (1)

ELT Stephen Rogers (1)

EMT Leo Silverstein (1)

PAR Nariman Niyazov (2)

ELT Hemraj Persaud (2)

EMT Tabatha Rogers (1)

EMT Joaquin Simo (1)

PAR Stephen Northmore (1)

PAR Nathan Persaud (2)

PAR Michael Rojas (1)

ECP Suchingh Singh (1)

PAR Anthony Nsowa (1)

EMT Stephen Peters (1)

EMT Simone Rojas (1)

EMT Joseph Slane (2)

ELT Eric Nunez (1)

PAR Julian Peterson (3)

PAR Luis Rojas Gonzalez (2)

EMT Kristopher Smalls (1)

PAR Mark O'Brien (2)

EMT Matthew Pickman (1)

EMT Martell Rolan (1)

EMT Jack Smith (1)

PAR Angela Ocasio (1)

ELT Piotr Piechota (3)

PAR Angel Roldos Jr. (1)

PAR Lucey Snyder (4)

ELT Sylvia Occhipinti (1)

ELT Christopher Pierce (1)

PAR Daniel Rollero (3)

PAR William Sochor (1)

ELT Jason Ochoa (1)

PAR Kreisha Pierre (1)

EMT Kristen Rollins (2)

PAR Arnaldo Soler (2)

EMT Kerry O'Connor (1)

ELT Latasha Pierre (3)

PAR Edgar Romero (3)

EMT Steven Soto (1)

EMT Anson O'Connor (1)

PAR Jose Pineda (1)

EMT Daniel Rosario (1)

EMT Robert Soto Jr. (1)

ELT Justin O'Grady (2)

EMT Jacey Pitti (1)

EMT Kevin Rosario (1)

ELT Jason Spandorf (2)

PAR Brandon Ojeda (1)

PAR Stephanie Placanica (2)

ELT Andrew Rosenthal (1)

PAR Daniel Sparnroft (1)

EMT Amanda Oliva (1)

PAR Ivan Placido (3)

EMT Michael Rotolol (1)

PAR Laura Squitire (3)

ELT Meleki O'Neal (3)

EMT Melissa Plasencia (1)

PAR Jonathan Ruiz (1)

PAR Leonil Sta-Maria (1)

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2025 PRE-HOSPITAL SAVE AWARDS EMT Thomas Stapleton (1)

EMT Neil Torres (1)

EMT Arben Velovic (1)

EMT Tremaine Witter (1)

PAR Sean Stenson (1)

PAR Joseph Torrillo Jr. (2)

PAR Fernando Venancio Huerta (2)

PAR Sean Wright (1)

EMT Kemar Stewartson (1)

PAR Michael Travers (1)

EMT Keniesha Venzen (1)

PAR Jaron Wyche (3)

EMT Thomas Strawsacker (1)

PAR John Travis (1)

PAR Valerie Vera Tudela (1)

EMT Kevin Xian (1)

PAR Thomas Strong (1)

EMT George Tsaava (1)

PAR Kimberly Verspoor (1)

PAR Weikai Xiang (1)

PAR Tzu Kai Su (1)

EMT Brandon Tubens (1)

ELT Brehene Vice (1)

EMT Alex Xie (1)

EMT Joseph Sullivan (1)

EMT Liam Tuohy (1)

EMT Trevon Vickerie-George (1)

EMT James Yap (1)

EMT Robert Sullivan (2)

EMT Brandon Turkish (1)

EMT Joseph Vidal (1)

EMT Tyrese Yassin (2)

EMT Timothy Sullivan (1)

PAR Dana Twomey (2)

PAR Natasha Villaruel (1)

PAR Eric Yau (1)

PAR Darshan Surprenant (1)

EMT Jordan Tymony (1)

ELT Lydia Vinas (1)

EMT Thomas Yeno Jr. (1)

ELT Joshua Sutherland (1)

PAR Roberto Urena (1)

PAR Kaylie Vines (3)

EMT Joffrey Yin (1)

EMT Eddie Tacoaman (1)

PAR Natalia Uribe Lopez (3)

ELT Klara Wahlster (1)

PAR John Yoo (1)

EMT Benjamin Talo Velasquez (1)

PAR David Urrea (1)

PAR Nicholas Waldrop (1)

PAR Sung Jun Yoon (2)

EMT Anthony Tarasi Jr. (1)

PAR Brian Usher (1)

EMT Tylique Walters (1)

PAR Wayne Young Jr. (1)

EMT Mitchell Tarnapolsky (1)

PAR Vitaly Usherenko (4)

EMT Elizabeth Watson (2)

ELT Kenny Yu (2)

PAR Caleb Tavarez (2)

EMT Jesse Valdez (1)

PAR Nicholas Webb (1)

ELT Paul Yunek (1)

ELT Barbara Theodule (1)

ELT Wilfred Valdez (2)

ELT Brandon Weber (3)

PAR Roman Yusupov (6)

PAR Orlando Thomas (1)

EMT Michael Vale (1)

EMT Simonne West (1)

PAR Diego Zaldumbide (2)

EMT Travon Thomas (2)

PAR Robert Vales (1)

EMT Ezra White (1)

PAR Blanca Zambrano (1)

PAR Sean Timbang (1)

EMT Elizabeth Valladares (1)

EMT Michael White (2)

ELT Mohmedidris Zanpawala (10)

PAR Vanessa Tineo (3)

PAR Kenneth Valle (1)

EMT Matthew Williams (1)

EMT Andrew Zucker (1)

ELT Camalia Torres (6)

PAR Kevin Vazquez (2)

EMT Richard Wilson Jr. (1)

ELT Michael Zummo (2)

PAR Christopher Torres (2)

EMT Frank Vela (1)

EMT Brian Winberry (1)

PAR Marvin Zuniga (1)

PAR Christopher Torres (1)

PAR Alexander Velasquez (1)

ELT Asher Winik (1)

EMT Cristian Zuniga Mafla (1)

PAR Joshua Torres (1)

ELT Paula Velez (2)

ELT Shlomo Winkler (3)

2025 First Quarter Station 49 Shlomo Winkler Japhet Gaengan Christopher Pierce Jason Verspoor

January 2025 Station 26, 03A3 (F) Jack Nugent Francisco Vasquez February 2025 Station 10, 10H2 Ryan Cordeiro Aaron Montes Luca Eisen Alex Xie March 2025 Station 49, 49F2 Joseph Schenk Jack Wolin Frank Ciccone Kevin Cook

OFFICER OF THE QUARTER 2025 2025 Second Quarter Station 17 Jose Cruz William Curtain Lennon Parasram Corey Ruth

2025 Third Quarter Station 10 Valerie Martinez John Pneuman Lesley Kim

EMS UNIT OF THE MONTH 2025 July 2025 Station 40, 42A3 Ashton Onions Edward Thompson Christopher Echevarria

April 2025 QTRG 50F3 Irving Hernandez Zsofia Karaszi May 2025 Station 8, 08Z3 Hunter Dawkins Jonathan Miller

August 2025 Station 17, 17H3 Robert Condon Alexander Eckardt Christian Delisio Christian Segarra

June 2025 Station 47, 51Z2 James Bolger Robert Koemm Marc Krokowski Eric Laukaitis

September 2025 Station 14, 14A2 Shaniah Pena Gloria Martin Kristen Downs Simone Rojas

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2025 Fourth Quarter Station 8 Michael Potasso Yiru Tan

October 2025 Station 26, 26J2 Jason Jones Jasmine Perez December 2025 Station 3, 03F2 Peter Moger Cathal Bergin

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 terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center. The FDNY Foundation funds the Ganci medal and the NYS Honorary Fire Chief Association, Glenn Zarogen, president, funds their award.

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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)

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 FDNY Foundation funds this medal. The recipient also is awarded the Firefighter Louis Valentino Award, a medal endowed since 1998 by Diane Valentino and the Valentino family.

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

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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.

(Page 20) 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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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)

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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 FDNY Foundation funds this award.

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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

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the fact that the service rendered 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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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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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 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 30)

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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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Albert S. Johnston Medal lbert S. Johnston was a captain in the New York Fire Patrol with a record of 50 years of faithful service. Ten years after his retirement in 1927, this medal was endowed

by William F. Conran. A $100 cash award is given in honor and in memory of Fire Patrolman Keith Roma, Fire Patrol 2, who died in the line of duty at the WTC on 9/11/01. #344 Never Forgotten.

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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 34)

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Brummer Medal The late Bertram Brummer and his wife, Susie, had a long-standing interest in the FDNY. Bertram, a member of the New York Stock Exchange, received training during World War II at the Fire Department College and was assigned to Engine Company 44 in the Auxiliary Corps.

In 1961, Bertram and Susie Brummer endowed this medal to be awarded annually for an act of bravery. First awarded in 1962. Endowed by the New York City Fire Department.

(Page 35) Emerald Society Medal ndowed/funded by the Emerald Society and awarded to an FDNY member whose distinguished service in the line of duty receives recognition by the Department’s Board of Merit. First awarded in 1965.

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Holy Name Society Medal (Brooklyn/Queens) ndowed/funded by the Holy Name Society (Brooklyn-Queens) in memory of Chaplain Emeritus Very Reverend Monsignor Merrit E. Yeager. First awarded in 1967.

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Chief Wesley Williams Medal ndowed/funded by the Vulcan Society.

Awarded to an FDNY member whose distinguished service in the line of duty receives recognition by the Department’s Board of Merit. First awarded in 1966.

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Ner Tamid Society Franklin Delano Roosevelt Medal n this medal was endowed by the officers and members of FDNY'S Ner Tamid Society in honor of the late president.

First awarded in 1946.

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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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Fire Chiefs Association Memorial Medal he Fire Chiefs Association has endowed this medal to honor the memory of those chief officers of the FDNY who, from volunteer days to the present, have given leadership, inspiration, courage and, sometimes, their lives to the development of the finest firefighting force in the world. First awarded in 1979. Endowed by the New York City Fire Department.

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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 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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Battalion Chief Frank T. Tuttlemondo Medal his medal is endowed/funded by the members of the 44th Battalion in honor and memory of their late, beloved chief, who served the Brownsville area of Brooklyn most of his firefighting career and gave his life to save his men. The medal was designed by then-Firefighter George Guinan, formerly of Ladder 120.

It is presented annually to a member of the Department who performs an act of bravery and courage in keeping with the highest traditions of the FDNY. First awarded in 1982.

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Captain Denis W. Lane Memorial Medal ndowed in honor of the late Captain Denis W. Lane. Established by the Honorable Joseph M. Lane and Ms. Joan M. Lane. Captain Lane was appointed to the Department in 1913. A lifelong member of the FDNY Anchor Club, he retired in 1958 after a long and dedicated career.

Awarded to a deserving member of the uniformed force in recognition of an outstanding act of bravery. First awarded in 1976. Endowed by the New York City Fire Department.

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Dr. John F. Connell Medal warded since 1983 in honor of the late Dr. John F. Connell, adopted in 1923 by Engine 2, in what was then Hell’s Kitchen. With encouragement of firefighters who became his substitute fathers, he received his medical degree. He attended thousands of fires, treating firefighters and civilians without a thought of personal recognition. Endowed/funded by his son, the late John F. Connell Jr., and first awarded in 1983, the award continues from Rosemary Connell, the widow of John F. Connell Jr. (Page 48)

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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Lt. John H. Martinson Medal his medal is named in honor of Lieutenant John H. Martinson, Engine Co. 249, who made the supreme sacrifice on January 8, 2008, while operating at a high-rise fire at Brooklyn Box 2-2 3762.

John’s nickname was “Johnny nice guy.”

He will forever be remembered as a man who put the needs of others before his own. Funded together by both the Martinson family and the UFOA, this medal is awarded biannually to a member of the Department who performs an act of outstanding bravery and courage. First awarded in 2026.

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Dr. Albert A. Cinelli Medal ndowed/funded by the UFA in memory of Dr. Albert A. Cinelli, a longtime friend of the FDNY. Dr. Cinelli was responsible for founding both the Medical and Surgical Specialists Plan and the Surgical Assistance Fund. Serving without salary as the director of both programs, Dr. Cinelli won the admiration and respect of every member of the FDNY. In keeping with these thoughts, this medal has been dedicated to his memory. Awarded for the first time in 1978.

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Fire Bell Club Medal he Fire Bell Club, the oldest and largest such group in the New York City area, consists of individuals, both in and

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outside of the fire service, who have an interest in the FDNY. The Fire Bell Club awards this medal biannually as an expression of their admiration and appreciation of the camaraderie that has existed between the FDNY and the Club since its founding in 1939. First awarded in 1984.

Funded by the Fire Bell Club. (Page 50) 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 51)

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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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Firefighter Kevin C. Kane Medal his medal has been established in honor of Firefighter Kevin C. Kane, who made the supreme sacrifice in the discharge of his duties, protecting life and property on September 13, 1991. This medal is awarded biannually to a member of the Department who performs an act of outstanding bravery and courage as deemed by the Board of Merit. Funded

by Engine 207.

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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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Commissioner Robert S. Tucker Fire Alarm Dispatcher Medal reated and first awarded in 2026, Commissioner Robert S. Tucker endowed this award to be presented annually to a fire alarm dispatcher whose outstanding efforts contributed to a successful operation within the Bureau of Communications.

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Captain John J. Drennan Memorial Medal ndowed/funded by the Viking Association of the FDNY in memory of Captain John J. Drennan, who sacrificed his life in the line of duty. This medal is awarded to members of the Department who perform acts above and beyond the call of duty.

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Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire Memorial Medal stablished in 2026 in memory of the 146 workers who lost their lives in the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire, this medal recognizes members of the FDNY Bureau of Fire Prevention for their outstanding dedication and commitment to protecting life and property by enforcing New York City’s fire code. This tragic fire led to the creation of the Bureau of Fire Prevention the following year and prompted advanc-

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es in workplace safety, fire prevention and labor laws—standards that continue to evolve and shape modern fire safety practices today.

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Died in the Line of Duty

PARAMEDIC SALIH A. ABDUR RAHMAN EMS Station 16 Died on Oct. 29, 2025, in the borough of Manhattan.

Appointed to the FDNY on Oct. 18, 2002.

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Died in the Line of Duty

FIREFIGHTER PATRICK D. BRADY Ladder Company 120 Died on Nov. 8, 2025, as a result of injuries sustained while operating at Brooklyn Box 2202.

Appointed to the FDNY on July 14, 2014.

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