Massachusetts Honors New Bedford and Fall River Firefighters

I've always been fascinated by firefighters. They are a different breed. To me, the most incredible fact about firefighters is that while the rest of us run away from danger, their job is to run directly into the danger. That's clearly not a job that just anyone can do. You have to be wired differently, wired with bravery and a love of putting others first.

Honoring the Best of the Best

That's one reason why the Commonwealth of Massachusetts makes it a point to honor those firefighters who put their lives at risk in order to save the citizens and homes of our cities and towns. There were 170 Massachusetts firefighters who were honored this year, and a number of them serve New Bedford and Fall River.

Fall River Fire Department

Medal of Valor

Captain Francis O'Reagan
Firefighter Andrew Cordeiro
Firefighter Michael Cusick

New Bedford Fire Department

Citation for Meritorious Conduct

Captain Michael Dillon
Lt. Kyle Martin
Firefighter Paul Britto
Firefighter Renald Russo III

“This year’s awards reflect selfless acts of courage and skill that saved lives, protected homes, and delivered our most vulnerable residents from danger,” said Governor Healey. “To every firefighter who puts on the gear and answers the call, you have my gratitude and the gratitude of our entire state. We are so proud to support you as you support our safety every day.”

We send a big thank you to all of our local, SouthCoast firefighters, but especially to the ones listed above. Thank you for risking so much for our safety.

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Note: The deadly blaze at the Gabriel House in Fall River happened in on July 13 of 2025. The firefighters that displayed their bravery on that day will be considered for awards next year.

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Source: New Bedford and Fall River Firefighters Honored for Bravery