The Chicopee Fire Department is the recipient of a group citation at Tuesday's today's 35th Annual Firefighter of the Year Awards in Worcester.
The citation is in recognition of a rescue to save a teen from fast-moving water in the Front Street Canal in May.
Chicopee Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Deputy Chief Peter Jerusik
Lieutenant Joshua Provost
Lieutenant Matthew Zabik
Firefighter Nathan Carvalho
Firefighter Steven Laurin
Firefighter Laura Rousseau
Firefighter Benjamin Souza
Firefighter Patrick Strepka
The ceremony recognized 139 firefighters from 22 communities statewide for outstanding acts of bravery, heroism and service.
In addition, 12 Springfield Firefighters were also recognized for their action in saving lives during a Grover Street fire last year.
Springfield Group Citation for Meritorious Conduct
Captain Angel Caquias
Lieutenant Craig Fallon
Lieutenant William LaPalm
Firefighter Anthony Basile
Firefighter Melquan Bland
Firefighter Luis Cruz
Firefighter Dominic Grilli
Firefighter Raushaun James
Firefighter Korry Laboy
Firefighter Jason McClendon
Firefighter Christian Ramos
Firefighter Eric Xavier Smith
Governor Maura Healey says that with the spiking of brush fires throughout the state, it shows the greatest importance for firefighters statewide.
(Photo: State Fire Marshal's Office)