SENATOR JEFF KLEIN HOSTS SIXTH ANNUAL FIRST RESPONDER APPRECIATION BARBECUE

Bronx, NY — State Senator Jeff Klein (D- Bronx/Westchester) along with Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj (D-Bronx) and Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. hosted the Sixth Annual First Responders Appreciation Barbecue on Saturday at Orchard Beach.  

“My sixth annual First Responders Barbecue is small way to thank our brave first responders who put their lives on the line for us each and every day. These courageous men and women dedicate their lives to protecting ours, and we should reflect on the extraordinary sacrifices they make to serve our neighborhoods. This barbecue shows my appreciation to our heroes and honors their work," said Senator Jeff Klein.

“I am proud to join with Senator Klein as we celebrate the bravery and hard work of our first responders.  These honorees safeguard and serve our community and deserve this special recognition,” said Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj.

Hundreds of first responders gathered with their families to enjoy a fun-filled day, which began with a barbecue lunch.  The festivities continued with carnival games, face-painting, arts and crafts, and music. The New York Rangers conducted their “Road Tour Experience,” providing attendees with hockey lessons, games, and giveaways.

The day continued as local heroes received special recognition and awards for their outstanding commitment to protecting the people of New York.

Honorees included:

• Police Officer Derrick Kreckman,  Police Service Area #8,  who made headlines when he  led the rescue of 22 dogs trapped in a car owned by a homeless, mentally-ill woman.  Today the puppies are alive and thriving.

• Police Officer Wilson Rodriguez, Police Service Area #8, who began his career in 2011 and climbed the ranks of the NYPD to the position of Anti-Crime Officer, responding  to 911 priority jobs, such as robberies in progress, shots fired, burglaries, and assaults. He has affected a total of 136 arrests throughout his career.

• Clarivel Socola, 41^st Precinct,  who currently serves as a Community Affairs Officer. She plays an active role in engaging the community and improving their relationship with the NYPD.  Her participation in numerous community events and work with the residents fosters positive police-community relations, makes a true difference. Officer Socola has worked in  the Quality of Life Unit and Domestic Violence Unit.

• Police Officer Ricardo Jimenez, 43^rd Precinct, who has served as a police officer since 1994, and demonstrated extraordinary bravery when he responded to Twin Towers on September  11.  Throughout his 22 year career, he has served in the Counter Terrorism Unit, Grand Larceny Auto Unit, School Protection Unit, and Street Narcotics Enforcement Unit. Today, Officer Jimenez serves in the Domestic Violence Unit, protecting victims in life-threatening situations need and arresting perpetrators.

• Police Officer Denisse Caceres, 43^rd Precinct, who began her career at the 43^rd Precinct, where she combated crime and addressed quality of life issues as an impact officer.  She was then assigned to patrol and highway safety.  Today, Officer Caceres works in the Domestic Violence Unit, where she provides safety and resources for victims of domestic violence.

• Police Officer Hannah Rahn, 45^th Precinct, who currently serves as a Community Affairs Officer and works to bridge the gap between the community and the police precinct.  She has spearheaded outreach events at local senior centers, civic associations, and businesses to educate the community on crime prevention. Officer Rahn has affected 165 arrests throughout her career. .

• Police Officer David Lepore, 49^th Precinct, works very closely with the residents, civic organizations, and elected officials to respond to the community during any time of crisis or unrest as Community Affairs Officer.  He has partnered with Senator Klein to safeguard and protect our youth against sex offenders living in the vicinity of schools.  Officer Lepore is always ready to help those in need.  Just last month, he organized a trip to Disney World and has raised over $15,000 for a scholarship fund for a young boy who was left orphaned as a result of a domestic violence murder and suicide.

• Police Officer Melvin Rodriguez, 49^th Precinct, helps those in need every day in the Domestic Violence Unit, providing a safe haven for victims. In 2014, Officer Rodriguez Officer Rodriguez is a true American hero.  He holds the rank of Lieutenant in the United States Army and is a 16 year combat veteran, making the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

• James Lang,  Deputy Chief of The Mount Vernon Fire Department,  joined the department in 1987, fulfilling his life-long dream.  James was promoted to the Rank of Lieutenant in 1991, to the Rank of Captain in 2005 and to the Rank of Deputy Chief last month. During September 11^th, this courageous hero responded to assist his fellow FDNY Firefighters and Emergency Personnel from other New York City Agencies in the Rescue and Recovery Efforts at Ground Zero.

• Paramedic Dave Reeve and Paramedic Matthew Barbella, Medic Unit 15 Z,  saved firefighters who were badly injured while battling a dangerous four-alarm  fire on  E. 236th Street and White Plains Road on August 9, 2016.  They were able to safely transport the firefighters to Jacobi Hospital to receive medical attention.

• EMT Adam Harrow and EMT Cory Christian, Basic Life Support UNIT 20 I  responded immediately when a terrible accident occurred on Waters Place and Westchester Avenue.  A fire truck, which was in route to tend to a 4 alarm fire on 236^th Street and White Plains Road, collided with a motor vehicle. EMTs Adam Harrow and Cory Christian, also part of Station 20, transported the firefighters to Jacobi Hospital so that they can receive immediate care.

• Engine 43 and Ladder 59 made headlines with the very unusual and complicated rescue on the southbound Major Deegan Expressway.  A motorcyclist was stuck 25-feet below the embankment wall in a heavily wooded area in the vicinity of live Metro North Train tracks.  The unconscious and unresponsive victim had serious trauma to his lower extremities. Since there was no direct access to the victim, Engine 43 and Ladder 59 used a rope to lower a member down so as to begin immediate first aid. At the same time, other firefighters lowered a ladder down the embankment to assist the victim removal process. Tirelessly, the members of Engine 43 and Ladder 59 worked in a coordinated effort to stabilize the victim and get him removed to receive advanced medical care.