Bonsignore recounts EMS Chief Nocerino's rescue heroics
Bonsignore shares the story of EMS Deputy Chief Joseph Nocerino, who diverted from his commute to investigate a house fire in Coney Island, entered the burning building to alert occupants, and coordinated an 18-unit EMS response.
A second medal recipient this year is EMS Deputy Chief Joseph Nocerino.
Chief Nocerino was on his way
to work one early morning last December when he spotted smoke and diverted his route to investigate.
In the Coney Island section of Brooklyn, he discovered a home engulfed in flames.
After calling in the incident and requesting resources to the scene, he entered the building, braving the smoke and the flames to alert building occupants.
After clearing the first and second floor, he closed the interior door to slow the spread of fire.
Upon arrival of fire units, Chief Nocerino provided information to the members to assist in attacking the fire and then coordinated an 18-unit EMS response.
Organizing a variety of specialized personnel and ensuring the civilians he had evacuated received appropriate care.
For risking his own safety to rescue members of the public, he will be receiving the Chief Ulysses Grant Leadership Medal.
In addition to Firefighter Palmer and Chief Nocerino, 50 of their firefighting and EMS colleagues will be receiving medals for their heroic acts of bravery.