Two Union Firefighters To Be Recognized For Bravery

UNION, NJ - Twelve police officers and two firefighters will be recognized with a Medal of Valor award from The Two Hundred Club of Union County next month.  The two firefighters are from the Union Fire Department.

The Two Hundred Clubs' Medal of Valor award recognizes Union County police officers and firefighters who have gone above and beyond in the line of duty. Each officer will receive their award at The Two Hundred Clubs' annual luncheon on Friday, May 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn in Springfield.

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The Union firefighters who will be honored are Captain Kenneth DeHart and Firefighter Cody Mendoza-Ryals.

"I’m honored to be in attendance on May 17, to recognize the heroic actions of Captain Dehart and FF Mendoz-Ryals," said Union Fire Chief Greg Ricciardi.  "Our two members have performed heroic acts above and beyond the call of duty."

Ricciardi added, "our members are taught to risk a lot to save a lot and that’s exactly what occurred at this fire.  These two firefighters ascended a dangerous situation placing themselves in harm’s way to rescue and remove a civilian who would have perished if it weren’t for the quick actions of our firefighters.  This incident displays the courageous work our firefighters do daily alongside police and EMS departments to protect life and property."

According to The Two Hundred Club, the two Union firefighters will be honored because:

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On March 29, 2023, Captain DeHart and Firefighter Mendoza-Ryals were called to a blazing fire in a three-story mixed-use building. Without hesitation, they rushed into the building with a charged line, ready to combat the flames.

As they navigated through a smoke-filled apartment, they discovered a victim lying on the kitchen floor, unconscious but still breathing. Despite the danger surrounding them, Captain DeHart and Firefighter Mendoza called for backup to contain the fire and shifted all of their focus to rescuing the trapped victim.

Thanks to their quick thinking and unwavering bravery, the victim was saved and eventually made a full recovery.
For their fearless resolve and extraordinary bravery in the face of danger, Captain DeHart and Firefighter Mendoza-Ryals are receiving The Two Hundred Club of Union County Medal of Valor.

Those who are interested in attending can purchase their tickets here .

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