WORCESTER — A Lynn firefighter was honored last week at the state’s 34th annual Firefighter of the Year Awards.
Lt. Matt Reddy was recognized as one of 11 recipients of Governor’s Citations for Meritorious Conduct at the Nov. 21 ceremony.
“Each year, the Firefighter of the Year Awards recognize acts of bravery, heroism, and service that are truly remarkable – even by the remarkable standards set by Massachusetts firefighters,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “From structure fires to rushing waters, this year’s recipients defied grave danger to protect lives and preserve property. It’s an honor to celebrate them as individuals and teams. They represent the very finest in a tradition of helping others in times of danger and crisis.”
Reddy was recognized for saving the life of an 85-year-old man who collapsed on a Jan. 27 flight to Las Vegas.
Reddy and several other Massachusetts firefighters were traveling to Las Vegas for an annual leadership conference hosted by the International Association of Fire Fighters.
During the flight, the man lost consciousness inside the airplane’s bathroom, and the flight crew asked for assistance.
Reddy, along with Somerville Lt. Jay Colbert, New Bedford firefighter William Cabral, and Whitman firefighter and paramedic Richard MacKinnon, went into action.
They brought the man to the aisle and began CPR, including IV access and medication administration.
Working with a nurse who was also on board the flight, the firefighters worked to administer CPR to the patient for more than 90 minutes as his family looked on, while the flight was diverted to Omaha, Neb.
Once on the ground, they briefed the awaiting emergency medical services crew for continued care and transport.
“The firefighters we recognize today used every physical, mental, and technical skill available to them under some of the most extreme conditions imaginable,” State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine said. “They relied on their training, their teamwork, and their determination to get the job done. It’s my great honor to thank them for their service to the Commonwealth and their communities, and to congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.”
