Now the officers are being called heroes - but it's a label they resist.
After an adjournment two weeks ago, Thomas Mascia, who had previously been honored for his heroism, has pleaded guilty.
Mascia, who had previously been honored for his heroism, was expected to plead guilty but court was adjourned for another two weeks.
First responders in Michigan are speaking out after they used heat-seeking technology to rescue a 2-year-old toddler at night.
Nassau County officials say Trooper Thomas Mascia shot himself for attention and sympathy.
Officials say Williams admitted to intentionally starting the fire at the house when he knew or should have known that people were in the home.