The Putnam County Volunteer Fireman’s Association recently recognized the Cold Spring Fire Companyand North Highlands Fire Department for dramatic rescues carried out last year. Both fire departments were presented with “Firefighter of the Year” awards at the PCVFA annual installation dinner in Carmel. The two fire companies were honored for rescuing families trapped in their homes on Route 301 north of Route 9 after heavy rains from tropical storm Irene turned Clove Creek into a life-threatening, raging torrent. Cold Spring Fire Company’s Michael Bowman, Dan Valentine and Matt Steltz were also honored for their role in rescuing a hiker who had become precariously stranded on a sheer rock face on a trail north of Cold Spring.
Rep. Nan Hayworth and Putnam County Executive MaryEllen Odell also presented certificates to both fire companies recognizing their heroic service.
