Melrose Firefighter Honored for 'Heroic' Work

Governor Charlie Baker Monday joined Public Safety Secretary Daniel Bennett and State Fire Marshal Stephen D. Coan to honor firefighters from 22 Massachusetts fire departments for heroic acts of bravery at the 26th annual “Firefighter of the Year” Awards ceremony, held at MIT’s Kresge Auditorium.

Melrose firefighter Robert McVoy received an individual award for Meritorious Conduct.

“This year’s award recipients are each fine examples of the instinct that all firefighters possess to help others,” said Governor Baker. “We honor these heroic men and women of the Massachusetts fire service who deployed their training and experience to protect those in need – often at great risk to themselves.”

“The firefighters we honor today showed tremendous skill and bravery in the face of fires, technical rescues, emergency medical services, on land and on water, on duty and off,” said Public Safety Secretary Bennett. “This ceremony allows us to express our appreciation for these hometown heroes and their families,” he added.

“Everyone knows that firefighting is a dangerous job, but sometimes the dangers are hidden,” said State Fire Marshal Coan. “Witnessing the suffering of others takes its toll and sometimes we need someone to be there for our firefighters to ensure they keep their physical, mental and emotional health, and can continue to serve.”

Governor Baker and Secretary Bennett presented 43 awards in total. Click here to view all the recipients>>>