OCFA Firefighter "Heroes" Acknowledged At 2017 Heroes Luncheon

LAKE FOREST, CA — What does it take to be a hero? The American Red Cross of Orange County recently honored local citizens who have gone above and beyond to make the community a better place.

"It's all about recognizing the incredible feats of unsung heroes living and working in our community," Regional CEO of the American Red Cross Desert to the Sea Region, Linda Voss said.

The second 2017 Heroes Luncheon was held on May 3, honoring 12 individuals in 11 categories, all acknowledged at the event created to raise public awareness of the Red Cross's mission.

“In 2017, the American Red Cross Serving Orange County celebrates 100 years of service. For a century, the Red Cross has been there for the residents of Orange County, whenever and wherever needed. From disaster response to health and safety classes, to lifesaving blood collection and support of military members, the Red Cross has helped make our community safer and more prepared for what may come in the next 100 years,” the American Red Cross said in release. “We couldn’t do it without our heroes - our volunteers, supporters, and those who share in the spirit of the Red Cross Mission.”

Nearly 300 business leaders, elected officials, sponsors and organization supporters were in attendance for one unforgettable afternoon that also raised $80,000 for the American Red Cross OC chapter, according to the redcross.org. Honorees included:

• Lifesaving Award – Bennett Jonas, San Clemente native
• Animal Welfare Award – Tammy Osborn, OC Animal Care
• Community Partner Award – Emergency Response Team at Kelley Blue Book, (headquarters located in Irvine, Calif.)
• First Responder Award – Officers Jeremy Buraglia and Brandon Koenig, Orange County Sheriff’s Department
• Military Award – Harry Humphries
• Youth Award – Chaney Lieberman, Orange County Sherriff Explorer Post and President of TACK (Tacking Action Centered on Kids)
• Humanitarian Award – Celebrity Chef Sir Bruno Serato of Catrina’s Club and Anaheim White House Restaurant
• Blood Services Award – Steven Pierce, long-time blood donor of 31 years Lifetime Contribution Award – Captain/Paramedic Steve Concialdi, Orange County Fire Authority
• Committee’s Choice Award – Captain Stephen Horner, Orange County Fire Authority
• Certificate of Merit Award – Jere Greene, American Red Cross Volunteer

Of those honored, OCFA's Captain Steve Concialdi and Captain Stephen Horner shared their story of friendship and camaraderie.

“It was a huge honor to be in the same awards ceremony as Captain Concialdi because he is such an awesome guy,” Horner said. “I cannot say enough good things about my good friend Steve, because there are not enough good words to describe him. I consider him to be a great friend and can count on him at any time. Everyone can -- that’s just who he is.”

Concialdi also received the American Red Cross Awards 2017 Hero Lifetime Contribution Award for his founding Friends Against Drunk Driving (FADD).

“I am grateful to have a full-time job as an OCFA fire captain and paramedic. FADD is a way for me to give something back to the residents of Orange County in my off-duty days,” Concialdi said. “FADD and our partners are trying to keep the community more safe by educating teenagers and young adults about the consequences of drinking, texting and driving. FADD is a collaborative effort and there are so many amazing individuals, groups and agencies that help. Together, I believe we have made a difference and have saved lives.”

Concialdi stated that he owed his parents a debt of thanks for helping him start FADD in the late 1980s.

“I want to thank my Dad for teaching me how important character and integrity are,” Concialdi said. “He taught me how to always do the right thing -- even when nobody is looking. These are values I teach to my children because of him.”

Of his fellow OCFA fire captain, Concialdi acknowledged Horner for his efforts getting working fire alarms and smoke detectors in homes across Orange County.

“You are an asset to OCFA and the public we serve and I am proud to work alongside of you," Concialdi said. “The fire service is a brotherhood. I am honored to be an OCFA Fire Captain and serve Orange County residents daily."

The American Red Cross ‘Hero’ Awards brought both Concialdi and Horner pause, reflecting on the impacts of their work, and of the Orange County Fire Authority firefighters who do their work every day, expecting nothing in return.

“As firefighters, we don’t do work for awards. It’s humbling to be honored like this,” Concialdi said. “But these awards certainly remind us of the great organizations – like the American Red Cross, that stand with us and behind us, and have for 100 years alone in Orange County. Together – we can all save lives and make a real difference."

With Amy Spurgeon-Hoffman

Courtesy Photos, Captain Steve Concialdi & American Red Cross