Bloomingdale 'Heroes' Honored for Saving Man From Fire

They may not wear capes or have super powers, but the three uniformed men who were recognized by the mayor and council and Chief Joseph Borell Tuesday night are no less "heroes."

The word "heroes" was used several times to describe police Ptl. Kevin Piersel, Ptl. David Terpstra and Deputy Fire Chief Michael Wanklin, who

The officials responded to the fire around 10:30 p.m. on July 16 and, according to police, , to find 38-year-old Gregory C. Mather lying on the floor. The two police officers dragged the man into the hallway and Wanklin went in and assisted with the rescue.

Fire officials also rescued a dog from the fire. Mather was released from the hospital the following day.

"They put their best selves forward in service of humanity," Borell told the public and half a room filled with other police and fire volunteers.

Borell said an event like the one the officers responded to is rare and that the actions of the three men boost morale for not only the police and fire departments but the entire community. Mayor Jonathan Dunleavy agreed.

"What you do for this community is beyond words," Dunleavy said. "The few gentlemen here tonight are heroes, I know they probably don't think they are, they would tell you it's in the line of duty and it's their job, but you are absolutely heroes to this entire communty."