WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden is scheduled to present the Medal of Valor on Friday to two heroes from the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) who displayed extraordinary courage in saving New Yorkers from dangerous fires. The recipients of this prestigious award are Lieutenant John Vanderstar and firefighter Brendan Gaffney.
Lt. Vanderstar sprang into action in October 2022 when he was alerted to a fire in the Bronx. Responding swiftly to the emergency call, he discovered a woman and child trapped on the fifth floor of a burning apartment building. Despite the intense heat and smoke, Vanderstar, equipped with full protective gear and a self-contained breathing apparatus, navigated through the perilous conditions to rescue the occupants from imminent danger. Captain Stephen Elliott commended Vanderstar’s bravery, stating that the rescue was critical as the mother and child’s survival was hanging by a thread.
Firefighter Gaffney also demonstrated remarkable courage in February 2023 when he risked his life to save an unconscious pregnant woman and child from a burning building. Acting quickly and decisively, Gaffney shielded the child with his own body to ensure their safety before braving the flames once more to rescue the woman. His heroic efforts continued as he administered CPR to the woman while awaiting medical assistance, ultimately leading to the successful survival of both individuals. The White House highlighted Gaffney’s selfless actions in a press release, praising his extraordinary dedication to protecting and serving his community.
In addition to honoring the FDNY heroes, President Biden will recognize the bravery of five Nashville police officers who responded to a mass shooting at the Covenant School in 2023. The officers’ swift and decisive actions in a high-pressure situation undoubtedly saved lives and demonstrated their unwavering commitment to public safety. Furthermore, the President will pay tribute to Lincoln, Nebraska, police Sergeant Tu Tran, who heroically rescued a woman trapped inside a car submerged in a frigid pond, showcasing exceptional courage and quick thinking in the face of adversity.
Further underscoring his commitment to recognizing acts of valor and sacrifice, President Biden will posthumously award the Medal of Honor to six deserving Army soldiers. Private Bruno R. Orig, Private First Class Wataru Nakamura, Corporal Fred B. McGee, Private First Class Charles R. Johnson, retired General Richard E. Cavazos, and Captain Hugh R. Nelson, Jr., will all be honored for their extraordinary courage and selflessness in service to their country. Additionally, Army Specialist Fourth Class Kenneth J. David will be bestowed with this esteemed recognition, commemorating his exceptional contributions and dedication to upholding the values of the United States Armed Forces.
The Medal of Valor ceremony, set to take place in the evening, will serve as a poignant reminder of the selfless acts of heroism displayed by these individuals in the face of danger and adversity. President Biden’s recognition of their exceptional courage underscores the nation’s profound gratitude for their unwavering commitment to duty and unwavering
