Department members celebrated at the 2025 FDNY Foundation Dinner and the Fire Commissioner's Humanitarian Awards

September 10, 2025

FDNY members who continue to go above and beyond were celebrated during the 2025 FDNY Foundation Dinner and the Fire Commissioner's Humanitarian Awards on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, at the FDNY Fire Academy on Randall's Island.

Dubbed "Team Never Forget," Lieutenant Joseph LaPointe, Assistant Commissioner Dominique Joseph and Director Pascale Etienne were presented with FDNY Service Recognition Awards for their service. From organizing memorials and ceremonies, to supporting families in their most difficult moments, these dedicated individuals were honored for their extraordinary commitment to the Department, its members and their families.

"We honor the men and women who help make us good on our promise to Never Forget: the Ceremonial Unit, the Family Assistance Unit, and our Special Events team," FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker said. "With the support of the FDNY Foundation, these three groups consistently go above and beyond to ensure that every event at the FDNY has the signature standard of greatness, care and honor befitting the greatest fire department in the world."

Firefighter Michael D. Kotzo, of Ladder Company 28, was presented with a 2025 FDNY Service Recognition Award for performing two lifesaving rope rescues during a challenging top-floor fire in Manhattan in February 2024. His actions also earned him the Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci Jr. Medal and the NYS Honorary Fire Chiefs Association Medal-the top fire operations medal-at the FDNY's 156th Medal Day Ceremony.

EMTs Amber M. Black and Mitchell Tarnapolsky, both of Station 43, were presented with a 2025 FDNY Service Recognition Award for performing a lifesaving ocean rescue off Coney Island in July 2024. Thanks to their quick actions, they saved the lives of two young people. They both were also honored with the Christopher J. Prescott Medal-the top EMS operations medal-at the FDNY's 156th Medal Day Ceremony.

FDNY Commissioner Tucker said: "We are grateful for their service and bravery, and we thank them for their quick-thinking actions. We know they saved lives."

Retired Firefighter Darrel Patterson, of Ladder Company 118, was also honored with a 2025 Chief William M. Feehan Excellence in Fire & Life Safety Education Award for his more than 20 years of work educating New Yorkers through the Department's Fire Safety Education Unit. Patterson retired after 26 years of service, but continues to make an impact in New York City by helping to promote safety in local schools, community groups and at events.

These FDNY members stand as examples of service that extends beyond emergency response. They help strengthen the fabric of New York City through their leadership, commitment and empathy toward others.

For full coverage of the 2025 FDNY Foundation Dinner and the Fire Commissioner's Humanitarian Awards, visit the FDNY Foundation's website.