WORCESTER, Mass. (WWLP) - The Chicopee Fire Department was one of several departments across Massachusetts recognized for outstanding acts of bravery, heroism and service. The 35th Annual Firefighter of the Year Awards were held on Monday morning in Worcester and paid tribute to 139 firefighters from 22 communities statewide. Emergency personnel execute water rescue in Chicopee The Chicopee Fire Department received a group citation for Meritorious Conduct when they conducted a water rescue on May 7, 2024. A teen was trapped in the Front Street Canal in fast-moving water and in a location that made it difficult to reach the victim. They had to lower a rescue boat into the canal and use a rope to move downstream. The rescuers were able to lift the teen over the wall. He was taken to a hospital and has recovered. “Over the past several weeks, Massachusetts residents have seen firefighters heroically working to protect their communities from an unprecedented wildfire season,” said Governor Healey. “But the truth is that our firefighters demonstrate brave action, selfless compassion and deep commitment to their cities and towns every single day. The Firefighter of the Year Awards are a way to celebrate the heroes who never hesitate to answer a call for help.” “The powerful stories behind these awards remind us of the danger that Massachusetts firefighters encounter every time they go to work,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “No matter what new challenge or unexpected hazard arises, they are always there to help. We know the sacrifices they and their loved ones make to perform this difficult, dangerous work, and we are deeply grateful.” “The Firefighter of the Year Awards honor the extraordinary bravery and dedication of our firefighters, who protect and serve Massachusetts communities with unmatched skill and selflessness,” said Secretary Reidy. “These honorees exemplify the courage and professionalism that define the fire service. On behalf of the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, I extend heartfelt gratitude to these heroes and their families for their remarkable service and sacrifice.” “Being a firefighter isn’t just a job – it’s a calling,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “It takes us to classrooms and senior centers. It puts us on ladders, ropes, hose lines, and rescue boats. The dozens of scenarios behind this year’s awards reflect the depth and variety of the fire service mission. And the recipients all reflect extraordinary courage and determination to serve others regardless of the danger to themselves.” The complete list of award recipients is below: FFOY-2024-Recipients-Departments-Awards-and-SummariesDownload Local News Headlines Tracking wet and possibly wintry weather in Massachusetts this week UMass football Head Coach Don Brown to be replaced Chicopee Fire Dept. honored for water rescue Springfield Police Officer John Toledo suspended WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.