Letter of Commendation 3/20/2024
Mayor Mandell and Council Members:
On the morning of February second, the Elmira Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 359 Division Street. Upon arrival, Deputy Chief William Gillette reported visible smoke. Deputy Chief Gillette was able to hear someone inside one of the apartments on the east side of the structure calling for help. Deputy Chief Gillette directed the first arriving crew 641 to attempt a rescue of the individual. The crew sprang into action and were faced with a steel entry door that was locked, the only entrance to this particular apartment. Using tools that firefighters are trained to use, the crew quickly and effectively forced the door open and were immediately met with what a neighbor described as “a ball of fire and thick black smoke.” Firefighter Shane Leonberger, without hesitation, entered through the smoke and flames, located the individual, and dragged the victim back toward the entrance, where he was assisted by Captain John Curione with the extrication of the individual. Once outside, Firefighter Joseph Heverly immediately began administering medical attention until Advanced Life Support arrived. The actions of these four individuals on this day were exemplary! Firefighter Leonberger and Captain Curione exhibited exceptional courage and determination to enter this structure and remove this victim under extreme circumstances. Everyone worked together seamlessly, relying on their training and instincts. Despite all of these efforts, a few days later the victim succumbed to their injuries. Our hearts go out to the family of the victim as well as to the firefighters. Tragic death is always difficult for firefighters to face. This type of loss affects firefighters emotionally because the loss happened on their watch, under their protection.
I would like to commend these individuals for their exceptional leadership, bravery, determination, and coordination on this day. A day that will be forever etched into their minds not for the selfless actions that they all displayed, but because of the loss of life that fell under their watch. Sometimes, despite even exemplary efforts, the outcome may not be favorable; however, this should not overshadow the recognition that they deserve.
Respectfully,
Andrew Mallow
Fire Chief