STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce and the Fire Department hosted the FDNY Valor Awards Luncheon on Wednesday to recognize 17 of Staten Island’s bravest.
The award ceremony, which took place at the Hilton Garden Inn in Bloomfield, celebrated the extraordinary actions, bravery and commitment of firefighters and EMS workers to the communities they serve.
The event began with a presentation of the Colors by the FDNY Ceremonial Unit and Emerald Society Pipes, as well as a moment of silence for those who have been lost in the line of duty.
This year’s luncheon also included a special video presentation commemorating the 25th anniversary of 9/11.
FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore delivered the keynote address at the event, sharing how the honorees represent the best of the department.
“Your Valor Awards are given for moments where training, instinct and courage came together in the face of real danger. These are the moments that define our profession, and you met them without hesitation,” she said. “Staten Island has always been a place where service runs deep. Today, you remind us all that behind every call answered is a neighbor, a friend and a hero.”
The event also included remarks from members of the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, FDNY leaders, representatives from FDNY unions and elected officials.
“As we embark on the 25th anniversary of 9/11, let’s never forget those men. Let’s never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Borough President Vito Fossella. “Because there are those around this country, around this world, who seem to forget, but right here on Staten Island, we will never forget. To all those who are being honored today, along with NYPD, are the greatest in the world.”
Here’s a list of the 2026 FDNY Valor Award honorees:
Clinical Excellence AwardsParamedic Jason Costello – EMS Station 22, Sea ViewParamedic Stephen Totoriello – EMS Station 22Paramedic Michael Strobel – EMS Station 22Paramedic Daniel Fennell – EMS Station 22Extraordinary Care AwardsCaptain James McCue – EMS Station 22Lt. John Quiles – EMS Station 22EMT Kameron Williams – EMS Station 22EMT David Taranto – EMS Station 22EMT Vincent Morri – EMS Station 23, CharlestonEMT Christopher Parello – EMS Station 23Engine Company of the Year – Engine 161, South BeachLt. Jarrett HoweFirefighter Nicholas ThorgersenFirefighter Alyssa CatherwoodFirefighter Richard WeaverFirefighter Patrick ChowValor AwardsLt. Scott Ettinger – Engine 155, New BrightonFirefighter Donald Campbell – Rescue 5, Concord