Heroes Who Serve: 5 First Responders Keeping New York Safe

New York is home to dedicated first responders who go above and beyond to keep their communities safe. That’s why Patch and T-Mobile have teamed up to spotlight EMTs, firefighters and police officers who are making a difference every day.

Check out five outstanding New York first responders who are making an impact. And if you know a hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate a first responder for a chance to be featured in our Heroes Who Serve series on Patch!

Firefighter John "Waldie" Gullen (South Salem) — At 98 years old, Waldie Gullen was honored with a New York State Senate Proclamation for his extraordinary 81 years of service as a volunteer firefighter with the South Salem Fire Department. A World War II veteran and Bronze Star recipient, Gullen joined the department in 1942 and remained a dedicated public servant for more than eight decades. His lifelong contributions included serving as a founding member of the Lewisboro Lions Club and giving back to his community as both a firefighter and local business owner. A lifelong Waccabuc resident, Gullen passed away on December 1, 2024, at the age of 100. Read more here.

Detective Edwin Hugh and Officer Thomas Joy (Suffolk County) — In 2024, Suffolk County Police Detective Hugh and Officer Joy received the Attorney General’s Award for Distinguished Service in Community Policing for their outstanding work strengthening ties with the Asian American community. The pair co-founded the Suffolk County Police Asian Jade Society to support Asian American officers, encourage community service and foster cultural understanding. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they assisted vulnerable residents with transportation and delivered supplies to essential workers while also serving as liaisons for hate crime victims. Their efforts helped double Asian American and Muslim-American recruitment, setting a lasting example of innovative, community-driven policing. Read more here.

Firefighter Peter Danielle (West Babylon) — In March, Firefighter Peter Danielle rescued a resident from a burning home in Lindenhurst, where one person was killed and two others were seriously injured. While returning home, Danielle spotted smoke and heard cries for help, prompting him to enter the house alongside two Suffolk County police officers. He successfully carried one person to safety, allowing EMS crews to provide urgent medical care on the front lawn. Town of Babylon officials recognized his bravery with a special honor, commending his quick thinking and life-saving actions in the face of danger. Read more here.

Officer Robert Garvey (New York City) — NYPD Officer Garvey apprehended a man responsible for fatally stabbing three people during a string of random attacks in Manhattan in 2024. Acting swiftly and bravely, Garvey arrested the armed suspect near 46th Street and 1st Avenue shortly after the final stabbing. His courageous actions in a dangerous and unpredictable situation led Babylon officials to award him the town’s highest honor, the Heroism Award. Town leaders praised Garvey for his selflessness and dedication to public safety, calling him a true hometown hero. Read more here.

Officer Kevin Farina (Suffolk) — In June 2022, Officer Farina rescued two people from an overturned vehicle that caught fire on County Road 83 in Farmingville. While off duty and still on probation, he stopped on his way to work and, alongside bystanders, pulled the driver and passenger to safety before the flames intensified. His quick and selfless actions ensured both individuals escaped without injury. Farina was later honored with New York State’s 2023 Liberty Award for his bravery. Read more here.

We’re fortunate in New York to have first responders like these working tirelessly to keep us safe. If you know a local hero who deserves recognition, we want to hear about them! Click here to nominate them to be featured on Patch!