For Immediate Release:
June 25, 2019
Contact:
Paul Larrabee
PLarrabee@corningplace.com
518.689.7246
518.491.7577 (Cell)
The New York State Professional Fire Fighters Association today recognized the extraordinary efforts of four Syracuse Fire Fighters – by designating them with one of its highest honors – fire fighters of the year.
The award presented to fire fighter Kevin Cox; Lt. Gene Johnson, Fire Fighter Rodney Mattison and Fire Fighter Chis DeStefano all member of Syracuse Fire Fighters Local 280 - was presented at the union’s 80th convention, taking place in Saratoga Springs on June 24, and stems from two separate incidents occurring in 2018 just six days apart.
Sam Fresina, President of the 18,000 member union representing more than 100 career departments said: “The four fire fighters recognized represent the very best of the fire service. I know that their community is grateful for their service and dedication, our members our proud of them and the members of Local 280 are proud to work stand with them.”
On March 31, 2018 Fire Fighter Kevin Cox, responded to a scene at Whittier Avenue to find a 17-year-old boy suffering from a severe neck wound and extreme blood loss after falling through a window. As the youth’s condition deteriorated, he stopped breathing – Cox reached into the wound and for approximately 20 minutes pinched closed the wound, while additional procedures were performed on the scene, in the ambulance and until transferring care to doctors at the Upstate University Hospital who performed surgery saving the young man’s life.
Paul Motondo, President of Local 280 said: “Undoubtedly, Fire Fighter Cox’s actions saved a life that without immediate action would have been tragically lost. It was his clarity of thought and commitment to his patient that provided the vital link from the scene on a city street to the operating room.”
Just six days later, on April 5, a fire engulfed a residence on Fitch Street. Responding to the scene, the members of Syracuse FD Rescue repeatedly conducted searches for victims throughout the multi-floor structure that was filled with smoke and overwhelming flames located multiple victims, including an infant. The incident, ultimately resulted in the loss of four lives, and was among the deadliest in recent history.
Motondo praised Lt. Johnson and Fire Fighters Mattison and Destfano: “Each year thousands of calls are received by the Syracuse Fire Department, and the dangers and peril are unknown when the a company leaves the station, but when they arrive on the scene, the community knows the members of this department will be prepared to confront every challenge and obstacle they encounter, and they will do so selflessly and with urgency.”