The former Oneonta firefighter that died while saving his nephews and fiancée from a fire at their home has been honored with the Senate Liberty Medal by Senator James Seward.
The New York State Senate Liberty Medal is the highest honor an individual can receive from the state senate.
Seward said that John Heller’s actions reflect the values of all first responders and their constant commitment to put the lives of others before their own.
“John's final act here on earth was one of bravery, valor, and heroism, and love of others. John's heroic actions embody everything that the Senate created the Liberty Medal of Honor for in the first place,” said state Senator James Seward.
The medal was presented to John's fiancée and his mother and father at a ceremony in his honor.
An indictment on the suspect involved with this case of arson could come within the next month.