City Fire Chief Silva Honors Local Heroes

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Fire Chief Kenneth Silva presented a civilian Medal of Valor, several Certificates of Commendation and two Certificates of Recognition at a recent ceremony at the Honolulu Fire Department’s training center.

The awards recognized civilians, off-duty firefighters and police officers for their roles at several rescues and fire emergencies in 2009 and 2010, including a serious North Shore accident.

A commendation was awarded to police officers Jack Wright and Lisa Reed for extricating an injured motorist from a burning vehicle in Wahiawa prior to firefighters’ arrival Dec. 10, 2009. Commendations honor those who have subjected themselves to personal risk by performing great acts of service or bravery.

“These brave individuals chose to help when others were in danger and in doing so, placed themselves in danger,” said Silva. “Most of the time, they did not know the people they helped. They just reacted to the situation and did what was needed.

“We are all fortunate that brave people like these are among us, willing to come to the aid of strangers, to help their neighbors and make a difference.”