Suffolk County honor recognizes Capt. Dennis Solares for heroic actions during October fire

A Central Islip firefighter is being recognized for saving two people from a burning home.

Capt. Dennis Solares, of the Central Islip Fire Department, received a gold medal from the Vocational Education and Extension Board of Suffolk County. The honor recognizes his actions during a fire on Dietz Street last October, when he ran to the rescue and pulled two people to safety. One of the victims was unconscious.

The gold medal is awarded to a Suffolk County firefighter for an act of heroism involving extreme personal risk.

Solares said receiving the award was especially meaningful because of the firefighters who have received it before him.

"It means everything to me. Huge names in this department have gotten it. Fifteen years ago, I saw their names on the plaques. You never think you are going to be in that position, but 15 years later. here I am," he said.

Solares was not the only firefighter recognized during the ceremony. Ten other firefighters were also honored for their bravery and their actions in the line of duty.