Teens Awarded Liberty Medal for Heroic Actions in Saving Lives
Quick-Thinking Teens Acknowledge for Heroic Action in Garage Fire
In a commendable display of bravery, four students from Whitesboro High School were honored on June 16 for their swift and selfless actions during a garage fire in Marcy, New York. The students—Aiden Kane, Morgan Randall, Tyler Sodj, and Donato Jellenich—were returning home from a junior prom on May 17 when they noticed flames engulfing a detached garage on Cavanaugh Road. Without hesitation, these teenagers sprang into action, showcasing remarkable composure in a life-threatening situation.
Upon encountering the fire, the group quickly coordinated efforts to assist the family residing near the garage. They not only called emergency services but also checked the premises for any occupants and provided comfort to the children present until help arrived. Their actions potentially saved lives and have since been recognized as heroic by officials and community members alike.
New York Senators Joseph Griffo and Mark Walczyk, along with Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon, presented the students with the New York State Senate Liberty Medals—the highest civilian honor bestowed for extraordinary courage and service. The awards ceremony took place in the Whitesboro Auditorium and was attended by family, friends, school faculty, and local officials, all eager to celebrate this exemplary display of heroism.
Principal David Cognetti shared his pride for the students, echoing sentiments voiced by the Whitesboro School Board President Brian McQueen, who noted that true heroes often do not wear capes. McQueen highlighted that the students could have easily chosen to pass by the fire but instead acted decisively, a testament to their character and upbringing.
Senator Griffo commended the young men for their initiative and emphasized the significance of community engagement. “What you did was remarkable at your age,” he stated, acknowledging the strong values instilled in them by their parents. He further encouraged other community members to take similar stands in emergencies, stressing that “when you see something, you say something, but not only that, you do something.”
Senator Walczyk commended the teens on their recognition, reinforcing the idea that their actions reflected greatly on them and their community. His remarks underscored that their decision to intervene was not a mere stroke of luck but rather a critical moment exhibiting responsibility and virtue.
The accolades extend beyond the medals. Whitesboro School Board also presented plaques to each student in recognition of their gallant effort, signifying that their courage inspires others in the community.
As the school year comes to a close, this incident serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for courage and compassion within young individuals, demonstrating the profound impact one can have on others during dire circumstances.
