WORCESTER — Two Lynn firefighters, instructor Joel Abreu and retired instructor Kevin Cronin, were honored for their heroism and service at Massachusetts’ 36th Annual Firefighter of the Year Awards.
Abreu and Cronin both received the Stephen D. Coan Fire Marshal’s Award, reflecting responses at 17 emergency scenes between June 20, 2024, and June 30, 2025.
Gov. Maura Healey, Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, Public Safety & Security Secretary Gina K. Kwon, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine, and Mayor Jared C. Nicholson were all present at the ceremony at Mechanics Hall in Worcester to show their support for the 170 firefighters across the commonwealth who were presented with awards.
Healey said, “This year’s awards reflect selfless acts of courage and skill that saved lives, protected homes, and delivered our most vulnerable residents from danger. To every firefighter who puts on the gear and answers the call, you have my gratitude and the gratitude of our entire state. We are so proud to support you as you support our safety every day.”
Driscoll said, “Massachusetts firefighters are our first line of defense against countless hazards. It’s an honor to recognize the breathtaking courage that the Firefighter of the Year awards reflect, and to thank these brave professionals for the work they do to protect our communities every day.”
Kwon said, “The stories behind this year’s awards took place during last year’s wildfires and in fires in every type of structure, from homes to businesses. But they also took place at medical emergencies, technical rescues, and car crashes, in icy water and on ladders high above city streets. If there is one common theme, it’s the members of our community who never hesitate to help people in danger.”
Davine said, “We have a saying in the fire service – you risk a little to save a little, and you risk a lot to save a lot. In big cities and small towns, these firefighters risked everything when lives were on the line. The physical, mental, and technical skills they bring to this demanding job are second to none, and the Firefighter of the Year awards are a small way of recognizing their singular value to our Commonwealth.”
Meanwhile, Nicholson commented on Abreu and Cronin’s dedication to the LFD.
“Lieutenant Abreu and Cronin embody the highest standards of the Lynn Fire Department, earning them both immense respect and admiration through their unwavering leadership and courage in their life-saving efforts of numerous residents. The City is proud of them and their impact, and we celebrate this distinguished recognition that honors the most deserving firefighters,” Nicholson said.
