NEW BREMEN — Two Lake Placid Volunteer Fire Department members have received the Firefighter of the Year Award for 2025.
The Northern New York Volunteer Firefighters Association honored John Fagan and Ciana Cerruti with the associations most distinguished recognition at is annual awards ceremony June 6.
The ceremony was hosted by the New Bremen Volunteer Fire Department at the First Mennonite Church in New Bremen, bringing together firefighters, families, and community leaders from across the region.
A SELFLESS ACT OF COURAGE
Fagan and Cerruti were recognized for an act of extraordinary bravery during an active structure fire at an apartment building complex.
Without the protection of a hose line, the two entered the burning building and located an elderly occupant who was found semi-conscious and face down on the floor.
Their swift and fearless action resulted in the successful rescue of the resident.
MEMORIAL SERVICE AND THE TOLLING OF THE BELL
Following the awards ceremony, a solemn memorial service was held to honor firefighters who have passed.
In keeping with the sacred firefighting tradition, the Tolling of the Bell was rung in memory of two departed members of the LPVFD, Kenneth R. Foster and John Dustin “Dusty” Smith.
Their service and sacrifice were remembered with deep respect by all those in attendance.