VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Firefighters from the Engine Company 17, Sandbridge Station, were recognized Wednesday by the Virginia Department of Fire Programs and the Virginia Fire Services Board for Career Outstanding Fire Department Response for a structure fire that occurred on July 5.
In the early morning hours of July 5, retired VBFD Captain Robb Valentine identified that a nearby home was on fire.
As he ran to assist, one of his neighbors stated that there were two people on the back side of the balcony, according to VBFD.
Engine 17 then arrived on scene and was notified of the immediate need for a rescue operation.
The department said Captain Matthew Cooley, Master Firefighter Christine Barakey, Master Firefighter Timothy Heard and Master Firefighter Kevin Wirth simultaneously deployed a hose line to protect the trapped residents while raising a 28-foot extension ladder to reach them.
As firefighters reached the third story, they quickly assisted one of the occupants onto the ladder and began the descent. VBFD said the smoke from the fire ignited around the building and on the balcony, and the second occupant had no choice but to climb over the railing to escape the heat.
Firefighters positioned themselves to help break the fall from the burning balcony, and the victims were transferred to EMS care with minor injuries.
Retired Captain Valentine stayed on scene and assisted with hose movement and logistics throughout the incident, according to VBFD.
VBFD says without the quick and calm actions of all parties involved, and the swift and effective execution of teamwork and lifesaving efforts, two individuals who were stranded on the third-floor balcony of a fully engulfed residential structure were rescued, which prevented severe injuries and potential death.
Established in 2002, the Governor's Fire Service Awards are a formal recognition of excellence in Virginia's Fire Services.
The Career Outstanding Fire Department Response Award is awarded to any outstanding Fire Department Response made in the last year that demonstrates mutual aid, integration of multiple system components, interagency interfacing and cooperation, or complex assessment or rescue.
VBFD said this award recognizes personnel who displayed critical decision-making abilities orengaged in similarly noteworthy actions that contributed to the successful outcome of the incident.
Congratulations, Engine 17!
