Fire Chief Receives Medal Of Valor For Quick Thinking To Save Victim

GARDEN CITY, NY — Garden City Fire Chief Matthew Pearn is being recognized for his bravery. He received the Bronze Medal of Valor from the Nassau County Fire Commission for his actions on July 22, 2022.

In the overnight hours, Pearn was flagged down by someone who heard a car crash in the vicinity of Cathedral Avenue and First Street.

The chief investigated and found an overturned vehicle on fire with the passenger still inside. Making matters worse, the car was pinned against a tree.

While firefighters got to the scene, Pearn cut off the windshield and removed the victim into a waiting ambulance for treatment.

"Only a select few Firefighters earn such an award," Fire Commissioner Bruce Chester
said. "Without his actions, the driver would not have survived."

Pearn suffered minor cuts to his hand from glass and debris.

Mayor Mary Carter Flanagan also attended the April 19 ceremony.

"The Village is incredibly lucky to have volunteers like Fire Chief Matt Pearn who act
selflessly to keep residents of Garden City and surrounding communities safe."