PFD honors Firefighter and EMS Providers of the Year for courage under pressure

The Philadelphia Fire Department honored Firefighter Matthew McCrory as Firefighter of the Year for his extraordinary courage in rescuing individuals from burning homes. In August and September 2024, McCrory, an 18-year veteran, entered two separate fires to save unconscious occupants, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in the fire service. Paramedic Zachary Weinstein and Firefighter/EMT Mitchell Valentin were also recognized as Providers of the Year for their heroic actions during a vehicle collision involving gunfire last year. Valentin described the perilous situation they faced while treating a shooting victim, stating, “If not us, who? ” Both medics expressed gratitude for their supportive team members.

The ceremony featured remarks from Fire Commissioner Jeffrey Thompson and Managing Director Adam Thiel, who commended the honorees for their dedication. A proclamation was read, recognizing October 5-11, 2025, as Fire Prevention Week in Philadelphia, underscoring the ongoing commitment to fire safety. The event highlighted the critical role of first responders in protecting the community.