SOUTH SALEM, N.Y. - Members of the Vista Fire Department, South Salem Fire Department and Westchester EMS were recognized on Thursday, Sept. 17, during the 2026 Westchester County Volunteer Firefighters Association (WCVFA) Convention in Ardsley. The emergency personnel received the 2026 Firefighter of the Year Award Unit Citation for their coordinated response to a June 22 structure fire and Mayday rescue on Elmwood Road.
During the June 22 incident, a Mayday was transmitted after a firefighter fell from the first floor into the basement of the residence. Firefighters from Vista and South Salem worked together to locate and remove the firefighter from the basement before the firefighter was transferred to Westchester EMS personnel for evaluation and transport to the hospital. The firefighter was later released.
The coordinated Mayday rescue operation was selected by the WCVFA Firefighter Award Committee for the 2026 Firefighter of the Year Award Unit Citation.
Members recognized as part of the award application included:
Vista Fire Department
Captain Marc Baiocco; Lead Foreman Ryan Ruggiero; Assistant Chief Brian Porco; Foreman Martin Rojas; Firefighter Dominick Mangone; Firefighter David Fignar; Lieutenant Elly Hersam; Foreman Daniel Hochman; Probationary Firefighter Jared Richardson; Foreman Grant Vialardi; Firefighter/EMT Andrew Korman; and Firefighter/EMT Ashtin Rama.
South Salem Fire Department
Chief Matt Yorke; Assistant Chief Mike Davison; Lieutenant Anthony Mendola; Lieutenant Scott Schoenberg; Firefighter John Winter; Firefighter Anthony Carelli; Firefighter Trevor Caviola; Ex-Chief Mike DeVito; Ex-Chief Tom Beck; and Ex-Chief Mike Lombardi.
Westchester EMS Paramedic Abigail Mascia was also honored for her efforts.
The Vista Fire Department, South Salem Fire Department and Westchester EMS congratulated all those recognized with the 2026 Firefighter of the Year Award Unit Citation and thanked the WCVFA for recognizing the coordinated efforts of the personnel involved.
The incident underscores the importance of regular training, strong mutual aid partnerships and effective coordination among emergency service agencies during a firefighter emergency. The three agencies remain committed to preparedness, public service and working collaboratively to protect the communities they serve.
Information provided by Vista Fire Department.
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