Senator Fuschillo Awards Liberty Medal To Hero Student From Wantagh

Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (8th Senate District) presented the New York State Senate Liberty Medal today to a young hero from Wantagh. Joseph Sorrentino, a fifth grade student at East Broadway Elementary School, earned the award for evacuating his entire family out of their burning home.

"Joseph’s bravery, poise, and quick thinking helped save both his life and the lives of his family. As a result of his actions, a tragedy was averted," said Senator Fuschillo. "I am certain that I speak for the entire community in saying that we are all very proud of this young hero, who is truly worthy of this prestigious honor."

Early on the morning of August 13th, Joseph woke up and noticed that the room he was sleeping in was filled with smoke. He immediately woke up his sister and guided her out of the burning home. He then alerted his grandparents, who were sleeping in the next room. After evacuating the entire family safely out of the home, Joseph then helped his grandfather rescue the family pets who were still inside.

Created in 2000, the New York State Senate Liberty Medal is one of the highest civilian honors that a New Yorker can receive. The award is given to individuals who have merited special commendation for exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts and achievements on behalf of their fellow New Yorkers. This is only the ninth time that Senator Fuschillo has awarded an individual with this prestigious honor.

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