2 Local Firefighters Recognized for Outstanding Service

Two local firefighters were honored, one for his heroic actions and another for his outstanding service, at the Suffolk County Medal of Valor ceremony on September 25.

Jack Italiano Jr., the ex-chief of the Cold Spring Harbor Fire Department, was presented the Vocational Education and Extension Board's "Silver Medal of Valor" while Ex-Chief Scott Dalrymple, the ex-chief of the Greenlawn Fire Department, received the "Frank L. Obremski Coordinator of the Year Award."

On Aug. 25, 2015, Italiano came across an overturned car in the woods with a woman trapped inside. Most of the car’s entrances were pinned shut by a large tree so he entered the vehicle through one of the broken windows. Italiano, who did not have on the proper protective equipment, positioned himself to be able to release her seatbelt and remove the woman from the driver’s seat. Italiano then became pinned under the woman, but his efforts put her in a safe position for access when the rescue crews were able to force entry into the car. The woman was then airlifted to a hospital for treatment. Fire officials said Italiano's actions were vital in the rescue process.

Italiano served as chief of the Cold Spring Harbor Fire Department in 1991 and is a 35-year veteran of the fire service. He is also a former member of both the Huntington and Huntington Manor Fire Departments.

Dalrymple, a 20-year member of the Greenlawn Fire Department, was honored for his outstanding service. He is one of five Deputy Fire Coordinators for the Town of Huntington who respond to all major emergencies across the Town and Suffolk County. He received the Frank L. Obremski Coordinator of the Year Award from Nancy Obremski, the widow of Frank Obremski who died in the line of duty in 2014.

Photos courtesy Dennis Whittam

• CSHFD Italiano Award - Cold Spring Harbor Fire Department Chiefs congratulate Ex-Chief Jack Italiano Jr. displaying his Medal of Valor. From left, are First Assistant Chief Dan Froehlich, Ex-Chief Jack Italiano, Chief Peter Como and Second Assistant Chief Justin Armbruster
• Dalrymple Medal - Ex-Chief Scott Dalrymple of the Greenlawn Fire Department, right, receives the Frank L. Obremski Coordinator of the Year Award from Nancy Obremski. At left is Suffolk Fire Rescue Deputy Commissioner John Jordan.