Clinton Fire Department Recognizes Service and Achievement at Annual Banquet

CLINTON, CT — The Clinton Volunteer Fire Department hosted its annual awards banquet on Saturday, February 7. The event honored members for their dedication and accomplishments over the past year. Mutual aid partners, public safety officials, and town and state dignitaries attended the ceremony. Friends and families of the department members were also present.

The banquet recognized various individuals for their service and actions during calls. Ray Alberino received the Daniel Vece Jr. Firefighter of the Year award for Outstanding Achievement. Niko Clados was named the Ronald Cozzo EMS Person of the Year and was also recognized as the Top Responder, having answered 508 calls.

Jon Paiser earned the William McGuiness Most Improved Firefighter of the Year award. David Carroll was honored as the Joan Johansen Most Improved EMS Person of the Year. Landon Johnson received the Jr. Firefighter of the Year award.

Additional special recognitions included the Hugh “Oscar” Allen Memorial Chief’s Award, presented to Captain of EMS Ray Denison. Captain of Fire Taso Clados received The Matthew Brown Legacy Award. Denise Talarczyk was awarded the EMS Life Saving Medal for her actions in saving an individual who was choking.