Saugus, Lynn firefighers honored

WORCESTER – Gov. Deval Patrick honored almost two dozen Saugus firefighters today for their refforts in battling a Route 1 tanker explosion in July.Patrick presented 23 Saugus firefighters with the Excellence in Leadership award this afternoon while speaking at the 22nd annual Firefighter of the Year Awards at the Hanover Theater in Worcester.He also presented awards to eight Lynn firefighters, including a Medal of Valor award for Derek Spitaleri for his quick response to a drowning at Breed?s Pond in July 2010.?I’m honored to be with everyone today to celebrate once again, the service and the sacrifice of firefighters and their families here in the commonwealth,” said Patrick. “Firefighters distinguish themselves everyday ? and it humbles me beyond measure to be in your presence today and everyday.”Read the full story in Thursday’s Daily Item.