NEW YORK CITY (WABC) -- Firefighters, paramedics, and other emergency workers were honored in the annual FDNY Medal Day ceremony for their life-saving work in 2021.
"I am proud to honor New York's Bravest today for their tremendous acts of valor and bravery protecting our city," Mayor Eric Adams said. "When we needed heroes, the men and women of the FDNY answered the call, putting their lives on the line to keep New Yorkers safe.
Over 70 first responders received medals during Wednesday's ceremony.
Some of the recipients include Firefighter Darren Harsch was recognized for rescuing a fellow firefighter in Queens.
Lieutenant Patrick Twomey and members of Ladder Company 41 received medals for rescuing six people from a fire in the Bronx.
And paramedics SheWain George and Hugh Smith rescued two people trapped after a collapse in Brooklyn.
"Our medal recipients represent the very best of the FDNY and demonstrate the strength of the pillars on which the FDNY stands - bravery, dedication, and service," Acting Fire Commissioner Kavanagh said. "When called to act, they did not hesitate. When they heard cries for help, when people were trapped by flames and smoke, and when New Yorkers were in dire need of medical care, they pushed forward and saved lives."
Members of Stations 17 and 40 will be the inaugural recipients of the "Yadira Arroyo Medal" for their actions to disarm a person in the Bronx.
The award was named after FDNY EMT Yadira Arroyo, who was killed in the line of duty in 2017.
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