Massachusetts Firefighters Recognized at 36th Annual Firefighter of the Year Awards

Massachusetts honored those who selflessly serve those in need on Tuesday, Nov. 25, at Worcester's Mechanics Hall. There, Gov. Maura Healey and other officials honored 170 firefighters across the state for heroism during the 36th Annual Firefighter of the Year Awards.

Members of the Fitchburg and Lowell fire departments were among those recognized for their heroic acts.

According to a Sentinel & Enterprise report, this year's honorees were recognized for their responses at 17 emergencies from June 20, 2024, to June 30 of this year, including two individual citations for meritorious conduct, 10 group citations, and 13 Medals of Valor.

The Fitchburg Fire Department was one of only two municipal departments to earn double awards. Twenty-two of its members were honored with Citations for Meritorious Conduct, recognizing individual or group actions that go above and beyond the call of duty.

Firefighter Antonio Similia received one of 13 Medals of Valor presented. The Medals of Honor acknowledge individual firefighters who demonstrate acts of bravery or other outstanding meritorious actions that go “above and beyond the normal demands of protection service.”

Four members of the Lowell Fire Department — Temporary Officer Steven Da Silva and firefighters Corey Nadeau, Oscar Jimenez, and Lt. Michael Dexter — were honored with Citations for Meritorious Conduct for extraordinary performances under challenging conditions.

Chicopee Capt. Katie Collins-Kalbaugh received the Norman Knight Award for Excellence in Community Service for her work as a longtime fire safety and prevention advocate.

Other honorees hailed from the Brockton, Canton, Chelsea, Everett, Fall River, Framingham, Marlborough, New Bedford, Pittsfield, Rockland, Stoneham, and Yarmouth fire departments.

“This year's awards reflect selfless acts of courage and skill that saved lives, protected homes, and delivered our most vulnerable residents from danger,” Healey said in a statement during the ceremony. “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.”