HOWELL, NJ - On Sunday, Oct. 2, County officials, firefighters and police officers from throughout Monmouth County gathered together at the Monmouth County Fire Academy for a memorial service honoring 61 firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty. In addition, an awards ceremony publicly recognized those who were awarded citations for bravery over the past year. Two firefighters that recently died in the line of duty were acknowledged at the ceremony, former Eatontown Fire Chief Richard Zadorozny and Firefighter Daniel McCann III of Manasquan.

Freeholder John P. Curley, freeholder liaison to the Fire Academy, spoke to the firefighters and their families, “Firefighting is not only a public service – it is a calling, a way of life. We will forever remember the Monmouth County firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice and given their lives as part of this noble vocation.” Curley also thanked the families of the firefighters for their support and sacrifice as well.

The memorial and awards ceremony was convened by the Monmouth County Fire Marshal’s Office. Each firefighter who died in the line of duty was honored with the ringing of a bell and a red carnation placed on the stage by a family member or fire service representative. The somber ceremony included the playing of Amazing Grace by the Monmouth County Police and Fire Pipes and Drum.

After honoring the fallen, Freeholder Curley, Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone, Freeholder Deputy Director Serena DiMaso and Monmouth County Fire Marshal Kevin Stout awarded Unit Citations and Medals of Valor for rescue and firefighting efforts during the past year.

“We are proud to honor these fine individuals who put themselves at risk to serve our community,” said Fire Marshal Stout. “These firefighters have gone above and beyond the call of duty to rescue those in need and they are all truly deserving of the valor awards they received.”

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2016 Medal Day recipients list follows:

Medal of Valor Awards

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