Senator Anthony Palumbo Awards Liberty Medals to East End Residents for their Heroic Actions

            New York State Senator Anthony Palumbo (R,C-New Suffolk) today hosted a Liberty Medal Ceremony at the Riverhead Free Library. During the event, Senator Palumbo presented New York State Senate Liberty Medals, the highest civilian honor a New Yorker can receive, to William Renten, Frank Greenwood, and Bill Gorga for their incredible courage and life-saving-efforts to help their fellow New Yorkers in the face of grave danger. Senator Palumbo was joined by Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio, Assemblyman Fred Thiele, Suffolk County Clerk Vincent Puleo and Brookhaven Town Supervisor Ed Romaine (Representing Congressman Nick LaLota’s Office) in the presentation of awards.

            “It is my great honor to award these three men with the highest civilian award available by the New York State Senate,” said Senator Anthony Palumbo. “Through their quick and selfless actions, these individuals helped save the lives of their fellow New Yorkers. These gentlemen not only signify the best of the 1st Senate District; they help to remind us of the power of kindness and bravery by risking their own safety to come to the aid of their fellow citizens.”

            “The collective bravery displayed by these remarkable individuals serves as an inspiration to our entire community. Their courage, in the face of extreme circumstances, reminds us of the inherent strength and compassion that resides within humanity. As a community, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and admiration to these heroes who risked their own safety to protect and save the lives of others,” said Assemblyman Fred Thiele.

            “Today we celebrate the best of what we as Americans are; strong, brave, selfless, heroic. These men endangered their own lives to save those of their neighbors, and in doing so stand as beacons to all of us.  We salute their actions, and thank them for their willingness to place others above themselves in time of need,” said Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio.

            "Bill Gorga, William Renten and Frank Greenwood demonstrated extraordinary selflessness and heroism, putting their personal safety aside to save lives in the face of real danger," said Congressman Nick LaLota (NY-01). "These gentlemen's actions embody the life philosophy of putting service above self and I am proud to represent them in the halls of Congress."

William Renten & Frank Greenwood:

On the morning of January 25th, William Renten, First Assistant Chief of the Riverhead Fire Department, Washington Engine Co.#2, alongside fellow honoree Frank Greenwood of Ever-Ready Engine Co. #3, caught sight of a sudden blaze emanating from a house down the street from where they were repairing a local road. With zero hesitation and unchallenged bravery, the two men instantly rushed towards the house, yelling to bystanders to call 911. Without safety equipment, and braving fire and smoke, the two men pulled one resident from the building. Upon seeing another in danger through the second-floor window, they rushed back inside and rescued the trapped woman by traversing smoke clogged stairs to get her to safety. With stout hearts, quick-thinking, and firm will, Mr. Renten and Mr. Greenwood saved the lives of two trapped souls and highlighted the very best characteristics of local heroes.

Bill Gorga:

On Valentine’s Day 2023, Bill Gorga, a retired marine engineer from East Marion was out shopping for a Valentine’s Day present for his wife Stephanie when the running car in front of him took off without the owner of the vehicle. Mr. Gorga was then approached by the owner of the SUV, who told him that her grandchild was still in the vehicle. Mr. Gorga urged the grandmother to jump in his truck and the two of them proceeded to follow the carjacker. Through his actions, Mr. Gorga was able to help in the apprehension of the suspect and re-united the toddler with its grandmother.

            “Today’s Liberty Medal Ceremony recognizes the valor and selfless actions of our fellow Long Islanders—citizens who rose to the occasion to help strangers in their time of need. We thank them for their courage and willingness to take action, despite the risk to their own safety,” concluded Senator Palumbo.