Nicholas Scoppetta, Fire Commissioner

On Medal Day, the New York City Fire Department publicly recognizes what New Yorkers assume; when they call for help, Firefighters will respond. That response is as certain as day follows night. Firefighters perform acts of heroism every day and on Medal Day, we gratefully say, ”Thank you” to all Firefighters for putting themselves at risk 365 days a year. And, we honor the bravest of the Bravest by recognizing individual acts of courage.

We honor individuals, but each Firefighter who will step forward today to receive a medal from the Mayor for a single action taken also will say that there are countless others who stood behind him at the fire scene. It is the team that gives Firefighters the confidence to do their job and take risks to protect and serve the people of New York City. Commitment to teamwork spans the Department’s 141-year history and is the core of this Department. Hard work and training are its foundation; tradition and pride provide its direction.

Every year, the Department’s oldest award, the James Gordon Bennett Medal, established in 1869, is awarded. For many years, the Gordon Bennett was the sole decoration for valor; hence, it is presented for the most outstanding act of heroism. And, as we do every three years, we award our highest service recognition awards--the Dr. Harry M. Archer Medal to an individual and the Lieutenant James Curran/New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation Medal/Father Julian F. Deeken Memorial Medal to a company.

Throughout today’s ceremony, in all five boroughs, runs will come in to engines, ladders, squads, rescues and the Marine Division. And, Firefighters will do what they have always done: they will go to work. Thank you for looking out for one another and for us.

We are a safer City because of you. Congratulations on a job well-done.

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