PHOTOS: Firefighters from across 17 Massachusetts fire departments were recognized for their actions on and off the job during the 33rd annual Firefighter of the Year Award Ceremony held at Mechanics Hall in Worcester on Friday.
Awards were given to about 110 firefighters across those departments, including the Norman Knight Award For Excellence in Community Service, Citation for Meritorious Conduct and the Medal of Valor. The Stephen D. Coan Fire Marshal Award went to Dr. Christine Kannler, a dermatologist who works with firefighters battling cancer. Gov. Charlie Baker, Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito and Public Safety and Security secretary Terrence M. Reidy each spoke to the award recipients in the seats behind them. Baker presented recipients with their awards, some going to teams of firefighters within one department.