Binghamton Firefighter's Annual Mass Honors Firefighters: Past and Present

10/10/2012 (Updated 6:39:06 PM)

BINGHAMTON -- When Binghamton Fire Department Lieutenant Daniel Vail saved his neighbor from life-threatening bee stings earlier this year, his parents were not surprised.

"He's very interested in other people, probably more interested in helping others than perhaps even looking out for himself," said Tom Vail, father of honoree Daniel Vail.

He along with four other civilians and firefighters were honored at St Paul's Church in Binghamton today for their outstanding work in 2012.  The firefighter's mass and breakfast is an annual occassion, coinciding with national fire prevention week.

Honorees and firefighters say that when they perform these acts of heroism, they are only doing their job.

"On duty or off duty, I think we have an obligation to help people out whenever we can.  I'm just happy my training experience and the circumstances allowed me to be in the right place and right time to help," said honoree Daniel Vail.

The ceremony also recognized retired and fallen firefighters.  Officials say that 21 Binghamton firefighters have died in the line of duty since the fire department opened in the late 19th century.

"I think it's important...it's not only recognition for them, hopefully it makes them feel good, but I think it makes the community feel good to know that there are people like this out there that are really willing and able to help us," said Binghamton Fire Chief Daniel L. Thomas.

The chief says that although the ceremony is held once a year, firefighters deserve appreciation and respect all year round.

Samantha McDonald, Fox 40 News.