Hempstead Town Supervisor Kate Murray honored local volunteer firefighters, including Stewart Manor Fire Department Assistant Chief Daniel O'Keefe, at a special ceremony Oct. 18. Twenty individuals were honored for their courage and dedication to protecting local communities.

"Firefighters make significant sacrifices and put their lives on the line every day to protect people and their property," Supervisor Murray said. "What makes the activities of our talented honorees so compelling is the fact that they volunteer, giving of their personal time, to ensure that our residents are safe."

Many of this year's recipients were honored for heroic deeds performed during the normal course of their day. "This only highlights the humanity and public-spiritedness these special individuals embrace," the supervisor added.

Assistant Chief O'Keefe has been a member of the Stewart Manor Fire Department for 12 years and has held every office in the department, including that of chief.

In addition to his firematic duties, Assistant Chief O'Keefe has obtained his certification as a New York State paramedic and is an active member of the department's EMS squad. He was directly involved in two recent EMS calls where his actions helped save the lives of persons in crisis.

In one instance his intervention in a cardiac arrest situation resulted in the successful resuscitation of the patient. In the other incident his quick actions stabilized a critically injured trauma victim. In these instances and so many others, Assistant Chief O'Keefe's tireless efforts have helped to save lives and enhance the effectiveness of his fire department.

For his outstanding service to the Stewart Manor Fire Department and to the entire community, he recently received the 2006 Town of Hempstead Firematic Award.

"Volunteer firefighters are indeed heroes in our communities and the Town of Hempstead is extremely grateful to each and every member of the local fire departments," Supervisor Murray concluded. "It's a pleasure to have this opportunity to recognize Hempstead Town's bravest."